ULTIMATE TIPS FORSAFE SUMMER SWIMMING

Swimming is the ultimate summer activity and you have likely already discovered that your kids turn into little fish the moment that school lets out for break.

While they only notice the fun involved with a splash in the pool, you know that their safety is the first priority.

As your kids don their goggles and swimsuits, use these tips to ensure that everyone stays safe in the water this season.

HAVE SAFETY EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE

Life jackets are a must when your kids go swimming.However, many parents overlook other essential pieces of safety equipment that should be near every body of water.

At a new swimming pool, make sure reaching and throwing equipment is easily accessible along with a well-stocked first-aid kit.

Supervising adults should also have a cell phone nearby to contact emergency services if a need arises.

WATCH THE WEATHER

Summer storms are unfortunately common in many parts of the country, so it is important to keep an eye on the forecast.

Teach your kids to exit the pool immediately at the first sign of lightning. Your kids should also understand to never go swimming in natural bodies of water during a storm since water levels can quickly rise to dangerous levels.

PROTECT DELICATE SKIN

Kids love summer but a nasty sunburn can ruin their fun for several weeks. Unfortunately, they will likely forget to reapply sunscreen periodically during their swimming sessions without a reminder.

Set a timer if necessary and follow the instructions on the sunscreen regarding how often to apply it after exposure to water.

For extra protection, try to minimize swimming sessions during the hottest part of the day, and shower after swimming to remove chlorine from skin since it can cause a rash on sensitive individuals.

PRACTICE SWIMMING AT SUMMER CAMP

When it comes to swimming, professionally taught lessons are essential for your child’s safety. At summer camp, kids get the opportunity to swim every day and sometimes even twice a day.

They also have the ability to swim in either a heated indoor pool or a natural lake so they are comfortable in different types of swimming conditions.

Since lifeguards and coaches at camp are trained in CPR and First-Aid and are always there to supervise the kids, this is one of the safest ways to learn to swim.

FOLLOW POSTED SAFETY SIGNS

Whenever your child visits a new swimming facility, take a few minutes to help them become familiar with the safety rules.

For example, signs warning not to dive should be taken seriously because the water may be too shallow for head-first diving.

At water parks, kids should follow the posted guidelines regarding age and size limitations before playing on slides and other aquatic rides.

Swimming offers many benefits for kids including the opportunity to engage in physical activity while socializing with friends.

In all the excitement, however, kids can sometimes lose sight of safety as they splash and play in the water. By making sure to review the safety rules with your kids …

… and maintaining their skills through supervised swimming opportunities, you can be certain that your kids are safe as they enjoy their favorite summer activity.

If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp for a fun swimming experience, be sure to visit our site to learn about Camp Walt Whitman.

Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Camp Walt Whitman offers a safe, nurturing environment in a beautiful mountain setting.

Our camp is a coed sleepaway camp, with separate areas for boys and girls. The kids have a blast, and make friendships that can last a lifetime.

Check out the water sports program here:http://bit.ly/campwaltwatersports

CAMP WALT WHITMAN1000 Cape Moonshine RdPiermont, NH 03779603-764-5521cww@campwalt.com