Summer swim safety measures encouraged

By Jessica Breazeale

Swim instructor Mara Norwood and Elijah Lofton (age 2), son of Trent and Sarah Lofton of Wesson, are pictured in a recent, local swim lesson.

As summer temperatures rise and families spend more time at pools, lakes and beaches, water safety instructors are reminding parents that close supervision is one of the most important ways to protect young children around water.

Drowning can happen in seconds and is often silent, making distractions such as cell phones, conversations, alcohol and other substances especially dangerous while children are swimming.

Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1 to 4. Nationwide, an estimated 900 children and teens die from unintentional drowning annually. According to the CDC, toddlers and minority groups are disproportionately impacted, with drowning rates having surged by 28% for young children in recent years.  

Parents should stay within arm’s reach of children who cannot swim and avoid allowing inexperienced swimmers into deep water. Swim lessons at an early age can help children become more comfortable and confident in the water.

Parents are also discouraged from throwing children into pools as a way to “teach” them to swim, as the experience can create fear and panic rather than confidence.

Families are encouraged to designate one adult as a “water watcher” whose only responsibility is actively supervising children in and around the water without distractions.

“As a lifeguard and swim teacher, I find it extremely important to keep an eye on your children at all times,” said Mara Norwood. “Even strong swimmers can run into unexpected and scary situations quickly. Active supervision helps keep everyone safe and allows children to feel more confident while swimming.”

Norwood, a certified lifeguard and swim instructor, teaches local swimming lessons during the summer months.

With children out of school and spending more time around water during the summer, instructors say a few simple precautions — and attentive adults — can make the difference between a fun day in the sun and a preventable tragedy.