Page 12 - May 24 Issue.indd
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Diving into National Water                       for parents to get their kids started on this crucial life skill.
                                                                Scholarships may also be available to help make lessons
                 Safety Month: A Parent’s                       affordable for all families.

               Guide to Keeping Kids Safe                       Know Your Limits: Choose Appropriate Water Environments
                                                                Understanding the swimming abilities of your children is

            May is not just about blooming flowers and warmer weather;   crucial when selecting water environments. Whether it’s a calm
            it’s also National Water Safety Month, a crucial time to raise   neighborhood pool or a more dynamic beach setting, choose
            awareness about the importance of water safety, particularly for   locations that match the swimming profi ciency of your kids.

            children. As families gear up for pool parties, beach vacations,   Inexperienced swimmers may benefit more from controlled
            and lazy days on the river, it’s essential for parents to prioritize   environments with lifeguards and clear safety guidelines.
            safety to ensure that every aquatic adventure remains a fun   Water Safety Gear: More than Just Fashion Statements
            experience.
                                                                Equip your children with appropriate safety gear. For
            Supervision is Key: Eyes on the Water, not on the Phone  non-swimmers or those still building their skills, life jackets

            First and foremost, maintaining constant supervision is   and floatation devices are essential. Ensure that the gear fi ts

            paramount when children are around water. Whether it’s a   properly and is Coast Guard-approved. These tools not only
            backyard pool, a nearby river, or the vastness of the ocean, a   provide an added layer of protection but also boost confi dence,
            watchful eye can make all the difference. Take turns designating   allowing kids to enjoy the water with a sense of security.


            a specific adult in your family or group as the assigned water
                                                                Establish and Enforce Pool Rules at Home
            watcher, and ensure they are not distracted by phones or other
                                                                If you have a pool at home or if your children visit family
            activities. Being present and attentive can be the most eff ective
                                                                or friends with pools, establish and enforce a set of safety
            preventive measure against potential accidents.
                                                                rules. Make sure your children understand the importance

            Swim Lessons: Th e Gift of Confidence and Safety    of following these rules, such as no running around the pool,

            Enrolling children in swim lessons early on is an investment   no diving in shallow water, and always entering the water feet

            in their safety and confidence around water. Professional   first. Consistent reinforcement of these guidelines will create
            instructors can teach essential water skills, instill proper   a safe and responsible pool environment.
            techniques, and build a foundation for a lifetime of safe   Emergency Preparedness: Be Ready for the Unexpected
            swimming. Caroline County Recreation and Parks, the YMCA,   Lastly, be prepared for emergencies. Ensure that you and your
            and private swim instruction companies in the region off er   children know basic water rescue skills, CPR, and how to call

            classes suitable for different age groups making it convenient
                                                                for help in case of an emergency. Quick response time is oft en
                                                                crucial in water-related incidents, and having the knowledge
                                                                and ability to act promptly can be lifesaving.
                                                                In conclusion, as we celebrate National Water Safety Month,
                                                                let’s pledge to keep our families safe, happy, and splashing
                                                                responsibly. By prioritizing supervision, investing in swim
                                                                lessons, choosing appropriate environments, using safety gear,
                                                                establishing and enforcing pool rules, and being prepared for
                                                                emergencies, parents can ensure that their kids develop a love
                                                                for water activities while staying safe in the process.







                                                                                        Janet Dove,

                                                                                              stylist



                                                                                    920 Gay St., Denton
                                                                                       410-310-4586

                                                                   Appointments ONLY! Please call to schedule
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