Poolside Peace of Mind: Water Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know

By Samantha Simmons, MS

There’s something magical about a sunny day spent by the water. Whether it’s the neighborhood pool, a friend’s backyard, or a splash pad with the kids, swimming is one of those childhood joys that creates lasting memories. As parents, our goal is to keep those memories fun and safe. The great news is that with a few simple habits and thoughtful choices, we can make water play safer for everyone without adding stress.

Stay Close, Stay Focused

The most important thing, always, is staying close and paying attention. Young kids can get into trouble in the water quickly and often without any noise or splashing. That doesn’t mean we need to hover or worry constantly, but it does mean we should stay present. Put your phone down, stay within reach of younger swimmers, and if you’re with other adults, take turns being the one who watches the water closely. Think of it like taking a friendly lifeguard shift, one person stays focused while the others relax, and then you switch.

Smart Pool Safety Starts at Home

If you have a pool at home, a few changes can go a long way toward keeping kids safe. A four-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate is one of the most effective ways to prevent unsupervised access to the water. Adding a pool alarm or a door chime that alerts you when someone heads toward the pool can also provide a helpful layer of protection. These are not about being fearful, they’re about giving everyone a little more peace of mind, especially during busy or distracting moments.

How Can My Child Stay Safe?

Swimming lessons are another excellent way to build water safety skills and confidence. Starting around age one, lessons can help children learn to float, tread water, and get to the

pool’s edge. It’s not about perfect technique but about helping kids feel more prepared in the water. Still, no matter how confident your child is, supervision is always essential. Swimming lessons are a tool, not a substitute for adult attention.

One often overlooked detail is the color of your child’s swimsuit. Bright, neon colors like orange, hot pink, lime green, or yellow are much easier to see in the water. These high-visibility colors can help you spot your child quickly if they go under. Swimsuits in light blue, gray, or white can blend into the water and pool floor, making it harder to see a child who might be in trouble. Choosing a bold, bright suit is a simple way to add an extra layer of safety.

It’s also important to remember that safety includes adults, too. Alcohol and water don’t mix well, whether you’re supervising kids or planning to swim yourself. Drinking impairs coordination, balance, and reaction time, all of which are critical in and around the water. It also affects judgment, which can lead to taking unnecessary risks, underestimating water conditions, or missing the signs that someone else is in trouble.

Designate a Water Watcher: Keep the Fun Safe

Even a moderate amount of alcohol can dull your ability to respond quickly in an emergency. For adults who supervise children, being even slightly impaired could mean missing a moment when a child slips under or needs help. And for those swimming or boating, alcohol significantly increases the chances of injury, drowning, or accidents involving others.

If you’re hosting a gathering or spending the day at the pool, consider setting a plan where alcohol is saved after the swimming is done. Designate one or more sober adults as water watchers, just like you would with a designated driver. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.

Staying clear-headed around water isn’t just about parenting responsibly — it’s about protecting everyone in and around the pool, including yourself. When safety comes first, you help ensure the day ends just as happily as it began.

Don’t forget about the SUNSCREEN!

And while we're thinking about safety, don’t forget the sunscreen. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher before heading out, and reapply every couple of hours, especially after swimming or toweling off. Sun safety is a part of water safety, and modeling this habit helps kids understand how to protect their skin, too.

Finally, remember that children learn by watching us. When they see us staying alert, respecting the water, and taking precautions seriously, they’re more likely to do the same. Whether it’s applying sunscreen, taking turns watching the pool, or wearing bright swim gear, those little choices set a powerful example.

At the end of the day, water safety doesn’t have to be complicated or scary. With a bit of preparation, some smart choices, and the commitment to stay close and alert, you can

focus on the best part: laughing, splashing, and creating sunny summer memories your family will treasure for years to come.