It’s almost summer and as the temperatures rise so does children’s curiosity around water. Toddlers aged between one and three years are most at risk because they are mobile and curious and don’t yet understand the danger of water. With access to swimming lessons at each of our centres, Day One explains the importance of water safety and what measures to take to keep your children safe…
Supervise your child around water
The most important preventive and important measure is to supervise your child around water at all times. This means actively watching them, keeping them within arm’s reach and not just glancing up every now and then. It’s important to never assume they will splash and yell for help if they get into trouble – all it takes is 20 seconds for a toddler to drown.
Swimming Lessons
Swimming lessons not only teach children how to swim, but it also helps to build confidence and encourage children to enjoy the water. During these lessons, water safety skills are also covered. At Day One, we understand just how important these lessons are and make it easy for your child to access swimming lessons from all of our centres!
Flotation Devices
If you buy personal flotation devices such as inflatable vests or ‘floaties’, make sure that they conform to Australian Standards – always check the label. These devices should be worn to help familiarise your child with water, not as a safety item. It’s important to remember to always supervise your child when they are wearing their personal flotation device, in case they tumble upside down or slip through the vest.
5 ways to help children keep safer when in, on and around water
- Actively supervise children and be in the water for less confident swimmers.
- Model safe behaviours around water.
- Set rules and boundaries for swimming and playing around water.
- Be involved in children’s swimming and water safety education.
- Learn about lifesaving, resuscitation and first aid.
For more information about our swimming lessons, contact one of our centres today: Eagleby, Dakabin, Mission Beach or Victoria Point.
