1. Always Have Active Supervision
Drowning can happen silently and in seconds. Never assume someone else is watching. Designate a “Water Watcher”—an adult whose sole job is to supervise children when they’re in or near water.
- Put the phone away
- Stay alert
- Avoid multitasking
If possible, the watcher should even be in the pool with non-swimmers or young children.
2. Use Proper Flotation Devices
Arm floaties and pool noodles aren’t lifesaving tools. For non-swimmers or kids under 5, always use a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket or a family-approved floatation device. Make sure it fits snugly and is worn correctly every time.
3. Set Clear Pool Rules
Before the fun starts, go over rules such as:
- No running on the deck
- No diving or flips
- No swimming without an adult
Having consistent rules makes expectations clear for kids and helps prevent accidents.
4. Stay Within Arm’s Reach
For toddlers and younger children, always stay within arm’s reach in any body of water. Even shallow water or kiddie pools can pose a drowning risk to small children.
5. Know CPR and First Aid
In an emergency, seconds matter. Parents and caregivers should be CPR certified and know the steps to take if a child is choking or unresponsive. Many local hospitals, community centers, and organizations like the Red Cross offer training.
6. Remove Distractions
At hotel pools, resorts, or vacation rentals, it’s easy to get distracted by the scenery or social media. But even a few seconds on your phone can result in a serious incident.
If you're supervising children, avoid texting, reading, or scrolling.
7. Be Extra Cautious at Vacations & Rentals
If you’re staying somewhere with a pool or beach access, do a quick safety check when you arrive:
- Check if gates lock and latches work
- Move furniture away from fences
- Keep pool toys out of sight when not in use (they can tempt little ones)
8. Teach Kids Water Safety Early
It’s never too early to talk to your child about water rules and safe behavior. Consider enrolling them in age-appropriate swim lessons to build their comfort and confidence in the water.
9. Watch for Signs of Fatigue
Children may not know when to stop. Watch for signs of exhaustion, shivering, or overexcitement—these are cues to take a break, rehydrate, or end pool time for the day.
10. Set an Example
Children take cues from adults. Model safe behavior by wearing a life vest during boating, following the pool rules, and staying off phones while supervising.
Final Thoughts
Water play can be one of the most joyful parts of childhood—but only when it’s approached with care and attentiveness. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or nanny, following these safety tips ensures the water stays a place of fun, not fear.
Need a trusted nanny or sitter who prioritizes child safety? Twinkle Toes offers highly trained caregivers who understand and implement water safety protocols—perfect for vacations, hotel stays, or pool days at home.