Summertime usually means the start of swimming time for many kids. But here in Texas, not only is everything bigger, but apparently, everything is hotter as well. The first wave of hot, humid weather is upon us in the second full month of spring.
Outdoor swimming pools in the area and residential communities have turned on the pumps and opened their gates, to the delight of many children and parents wanting to keep them cool and occupied.
As an at-home or house-call pediatrician, I want to offer some swimming safety tips for parents to keep in mind, as they enjoy the summer pool season with their children.
1) Please make sure that your child is supervised at all times while swimming. At least one adult should be assigned to watch the water at all times. Watching the water should be their only task for that period of time.
2) No running around the deck or area surrounding the water.
3) Teach children to never swim alone and to always obey the lifeguard’s and/or parent’s rules.
4) Make sure children have taken high quality swim lessons and save appropriate flotation devices for swimming in open bodies of water.
5) Train children to always enter an unfamiliar swimming area by getting in feet first.
6) Keep home swimming areas clean and free of hazards such as broken glass or sharp objects.
7) Have a first-aid kit handy in case of any accidents.
By following these swimming safety tips, you can help keep your child safe and enjoy a fun summer . . . eh, spring, swimming season!
© 127 Pediatrics, May 2022
Dr. Andrea Wadley is the owner, pediatrician, and breastfeeding medicine specialist for 127 Pediatrics. She has an established house calls pediatric practice in Colleyville, TX. She sees patients all over Tarrant County for concierge breastfeeding medicine consults, lactation consults, fourth-trimester care, tongue tie clipping, and medical ear piercing.
