Summer and water just go together. The sprinkler in the afternoon, popsicles dripping down little hands, pool days that somehow last eight hours, a lake, the beach, the backyard water table that turns your patio into a swamp - all the good summer stuff.
Water is one of the best parts of childhood. It’s also one of those things where a few simple habits can make a really big difference. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably seen enough terrifying headlines and internet posts to make you wonder if you’re supposed to spend every swim outing vibrating with anxiety.
You’re not. The goal isn’t to be scared of water, it’s to respect it.
Water safety isn’t about taking the fun out of summer - it’s actually the opposite. When everyone knows the rules, we can relax, play, splash, cannonball, build sandcastles, and enjoy the memories we’re here to make.
So here are the 12 potentially live-saving water safety rules we use with our families - simple, practical habits that help us enjoy the water while stacking the odds in our favor.
Before we swim, we stop for a quick family briefing - every single time. And yes, my kids are standing there like, “Mommmmm, can we PLEASE just get in already?!” Not yet, my friends.
We do a quick rundown of:
Where kids are allowed to swim
How deep the water is
Where they can jump
Whether life jackets are required
Any special rules for that location
This doesn’t need to be a whole presentation. Think 30-second team meeting before the game starts. Kids do so much better when they know the rules before excitement takes over and common sense leaves the group chat.
And a few simple family rules:
Always ask before going near water
Wait for an adult before getting in
Feet first unless an adult says otherwise
No running near the water
Stop immediately when a supervising adult gives a direction
This one is a non-negotiable.
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