The Water Safety Tips No One Talks About (But Every Parent Should Know)
Hey, Rhody parents!
As Memorial Day weekend rolls in and the swimsuits come out, I know many of us are packing coolers, blowing up floaties, and preparing for that first sunny splash of summer. âïž
But before we cannonball into the season, letâs chat about some lesser-known (but super important) water safety tips that could literally save a life this weekend. Because water safety is way more than just sunscreen and snacks.
1. Dry Drowning Isnât What You Think
Letâs clear this up: the term âdry drowningâ is everywhere onlineâbut what people usually mean is delayed or secondary drowning, which is very rare. That said, if your child ever has a scary water incident, keep an eye out for signs like:
Unusual coughing
Trouble breathing
Excessive fatigue
These symptoms can show up hours later, and itâs always better to get them checked out if youâre unsure.
2. Ditch the Blue Swimsuits
Theyâre cute, I know. But blue swimsuits can blend right into the waterâmaking it harder to spot your child, especially in lakes or oceans.
Instead, go for bright, high-contrast colors like neon orange, pink, or yellow. These stand out underwater and are easier for your eyes to track in a crowd.
đ Iâve put together my favorite parent-approved swimsuit picks [here] (affiliate links).
3. Puddle Jumpers Arenât Coast Guard Approved
Letâs talk floaties. Those little arm floaties or puddle jumpers can give our kids a false sense of confidence in the water. They also encourage a vertical postureâaka the âdrowning position.â
For boat days or open water, go with a properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Your little fish deserves the real deal. đ
4. Follow the 10/20 Rule
This oneâs golden for busy pool parties:
You should be able to scan the entire swim area in 10 seconds, and reach any child in 20 seconds.
Designate a Water Watcher every 15 minutes. No phones, no chattingâjust eyes on the water. (Trust me, it makes a big difference.)
5. Fences and Pool Covers Are Not Enough
Yes, theyâre important. But we know kids are quick, curious, and persistent. Relying on just a fence or pool cover isnât enough.
Layer your defenses:
Pool and door alarms
Self-latching gates
Constant, active supervision
đĄ Bonus Tip: Talk to Your Littles About Water Safety
Even toddlers can understand the basics. âWe never go near water without a grown-up,â or âIf you fall in, roll to your back and float.â Little brains soak up more than we think!
Ready to Build Real Water Skills?
If youâve been thinking about survival swim lessons, this is your sign. Our lessons at Rhody Little Swimmers are designed to teach life-saving skills that go beyond traditional swim classes.
Because summer should be full of fun, not fear. đ
đ Learn more or sign up for lessons at www.rhodyswim.com
