It’s summertime, and most youngsters can’t wait to jump in the pool, lake or other large body of water where they can cool off and escape the summer heat. Before heading out for the pool in the RV park you’re visiting, remember to remind young swimmers of these Rules for in and around the water:
- Do not run on the cement surrounding the Pool. This safety measure may seem like an obvious one, being that wet cement can be slippery, but you would be surprised how quickly youngsters seem to forget to walk when they are oh-so-excited to jump in the pool with their friends and/or family.
- Never swim without first getting the consent of the responsible adult. This is SO important and can’t be stressed enough, especially for non-swimmers, since it takes less than a minute for a child to drown. It is usually at a party or big gathering of people that children most often drown, when most of the adults are close by and everyone believes that “someone else” is watching the kiddos play in the water. Make sure to open the lines of communication with accompanying adults as to who is in charge of watching the “swimmers” and make sure that the children know that they are not to jump in until a responsible adult is watching.
- Always wear protective gear, such as a life vest, puddle jumper, or other flotation device, as needed. Obviously, having a responsible adult nearby supervising is a given, whether the flotation device is being used or not.
- Use the restroom before entering the pool and anytime, as needed, during swim time.
- Shower off before entering the pool to maintain the pool’s cleanliness. It is not a giant bathtub, so please do us all the courtesy of rinsing off your children before they jump in.
This list could go on, but these are the most important items to consider, whether you’re swimming at the local community pool, RV park pool, or other private pools this summer. Enjoy the Cool refreshing Water and Be Safe Swimming this Summer!