As the days get warmer, families are spending more time outdoors enjoying the sun. Young children love playing with water and this is the perfect time of year to let them burn off energy and have some good outdoor fun.
To keep children safe around water there are some simple steps you need to take. Whether it’s at the beach, a public pool or in your own home it is important to be there with children, helping them to become confident in the water.
Did you know that a child can drown in water as little as four centimetres deep? This is less than the length of your little finger. That’s not much water which is why adult supervision is so important. Children are naturally curious and always need to be supervised in and around water up until they are at least five years of age.
Swimming pools
• If you have a pool or spa pool it must be securely fenced and comply with the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987.
• Teach your child water safety rules such as waiting until an adult can get in the water with them, and not to run near pools.
• Always stay with your child in and around the pool.
• Floatation aids such as water wings and inflatable rings do not prevent drowning – you still need to supervise young children by keeping them within reach.
• Empty paddling pools when they aren’t in use.
Beaches and other swimming holes
• Be aware of possible hidden dangers such as rips and deep holes. Always stay in the water with young children.
• Watch children carefully – keep them within reach as they are paddling or playing at the waters edge.
• Everyone on a boat needs a life jacket. Young children always need to wear a life jacket and a harness.
• Water troughs and natural pools, fish ponds, creeks and ditches are a drowning danger.
• A fenced off play area will help keep children safe.
Water confidence
Water confidence classes are offered around the country and are a great way to introduce babies to water in a supervised way. Once baby reaches six months of age, you can make inquiries about classes near you.
This is when their immune systems will be developed enough for them to be around potentially large groups of people using the pool without the risk of getting sick.
Like any experience, remember to encourage children to learn water skills at their own pace, allowing them to gain confidence in one skill before moving on to the next.
Being safe in the water means having fun being with children and enjoying the experiences together.
Remember - keep young children within reach when they’re around water.
For more information or advice you can talk to your local Plunket Nurse or call PlunketLine 0800 933 922 24 hours, 7 days a week.
