National Swim Safety is on the horizon, so we wanted to get a head start discussing swim safety before your girls get back in the water this summer. Here at Ladybug for Girls, we promote swimming as one of many great life sports to promote a lifelong commitment to physical fitness. Swimming does involve additional precautions when it comes to safety. What lessons in swim safety are most important to enforce for your girls before hitting the pools this summer? Let’s take a closer look. 

Only Swim at the Right Depth

Swimming is a fantastic activity that can grow with your child, but as your child is learning it’s important that they stay safe and only stay in water that’s the right depth for them. Until your daughter is fully comfortable with swimming make sure they know to remain in the shallow end of the pool. 

Make Sure an Adult is Present

Children should never swim on their own. Whether they’re at a community pool, a friend’s pool, a lake, or the beach, a responsible adult needs to be nearby to ensure their safety at all times. Lifeguards will be present in some cases or another adult needs to supervise. Teach your girls to never swim where an adult isn’t present. 

Obey the Pool Rules

Pool rules are there for a reason. Whether the rules exist at a community pool or are established by the family, girls need to respect the rules whenever they go swimming. For example, if the pool rules indicate that running is not allowed around the pool, generally to prevent slip and fall accidents, they need to comply. 

Lake, Pond, and River Safety

While pools are fantastic resources in the summertime and provide opportunities for physical fitness, some families visit lakes or other natural water sources where swimming is permitted during vacations. The same general water safety rules do apply, but it’s also important to teach children about safety in nature. There may be hazards such as fast-moving water, obstacles or animals, or changes in weather that impact the safety of swimming in a lake or river.

Visiting the Beach

For many families across the country, the beach is a popular getaway. Beaches can have hazards that girls should be aware of before swimming. Teach them about tides, undercurrents, and not getting too far from shore. 

Do you and your family enjoy swimming in the summer for fitness or recreation? Ladybug for Girls encourages activities such as swimming to provide a lifelong interest in physical fitness. Contact us to find out more.