Water safety tips for summer adventures

For many of us, summer in the Pacific Northwest means spending time in or near water. Whether you’re planning to kayak through the San Juans, cruise Lake Chelan or simply visit your community pool, it’s a good time to refresh your water safety knowledge.

These practical tips can help you and your family enjoy water-based activities safely all season long.

Tip 1: Practice safety on open water

Our region has abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, paddleboarding and other activities. No matter your adventure of choice, wear a life jacket — even if you know how to swim.

Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death for children, and many drownings — among people of all ages — occur in open water, such as lakes and rivers.

In Washington, many bodies of water are glacier-fed, staying a chilly 50-55 degrees year-round. Water this cold can rapidly lower body temperature and make it difficult to swim.

In addition to wearing a properly fitted life jacket, keep these open-water safety tips in mind:

• Check water and weather conditions before you go
• Swim in designated areas, and where a lifeguard is present when possible; never swim alone
• Talk with kids about rip currents and what to do if they’re caught in one
• Avoid alcohol and drugs while boating or doing other water-based activities
• Know how to safely participate in paddle sports, like kayaking and canoeing

Tip 2: Enroll your child in swim lessons

Swimming is a fun activity for all ages — and it’s a crucial skill that could save your child’s life. Most children are ready to start swim lessons by age 4, though lessons to prevent drowning can begin as early as age 1, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. But no matter their age, it’s never too late to start!

Keep in mind that swim lessons aren’t a one-time activity. Children should brush up on their skills each year. Visit healthychildren.org, the American Academy of Pediatrics site for families, to learn more about finding affordable swim lessons in your community and choosing a program that’s right for your child.

Tip 3: Choose bathing suit color wisely

When shopping for kids’ swimsuits, fit and comfort matter, but color can be just as important. Some colors, like blue, black or white, are difficult to see clearly under water.

Experts recommend choosing swimwear in high-contrast solid colors like neon orange, yellow, green or pink. These colors tend to stand out in water, making it easier to spot your child quickly in an emergency. (However, pink did not perform well in visibility tests in lake water.)

Tip 4: Designate a water watcher

Drowning often happens quickly and quietly. That’s why active supervision is essential when children are in or near the water, even if they know how to swim.

Whether you’re enjoying a day at the lake or at a lifeguarded pool, assign a designated water watcher — a responsible adult who is focused on supervising children. Water watchers shouldn’t be distracted by phones or conversations, and rotating the role can help watchers stay alert. Learn more about designated water watchers.

Tip 5: Be vigilant with young children around pools and spas

Drowning is the leading cause of fatal injury for children 1-4. If you have a home pool or spa, use multiple layers of protection, such as four-sided fencing, pool and gate alarms, as well as other precautions.

When young children are in a pool, don’t rely on floaties, inflatable arm bands or similar devices to keep them safe. If your child is young enough to require a flotation device in a pool, an adult should be in the water with them, within arm’s reach, at all times. Learn more about pool safety for all ages.