Memorial Day Water Safety Tips: Keep Kids Safe This Summer, Experts Advise

As families gear up to celebrate Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer, pediatricians are urging parents to prioritize water safety to help prevent drowning incidents, particularly among young children.

Dr. Teresa Horton of Utica Park Clinic in Tulsa says vigilance is key when children are near water, whether at the pool, lake, or backyard party.

“The best advice is if there's water nearby, somebody needs to be a designated watcher. So, because when you're with a large group of people, everybody may be thinking that the other person is watching the children. So somebody needs to be the watcher.”

Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 4, according to national statistics. Dr. Horton noted that many incidents occur after swimming activities are believed to be over and children return to the water unexpectedly.

Tailored Tips by Age Group

Water safety strategies should be tailored to a child’s age. For younger children, Dr. Horton recommends U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets and constant, close supervision, ideally within arm’s reach.

When it comes to little swimmers, try to make sure someone is swimming nearby. Engage in swimming lessons early and make sure older children understand their boundaries.

Older children and teenagers require a different approach, she said, including open conversations about peer pressure, substance use, and risky behavior while swimming with friends.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Dr. Horton also emphasized the importance of preparation. Even experienced swimmers can be caught off guard by dangerous conditions like currents or unexpected injuries. She recommends teaching teenagers CPR to make sure they can help and be aware of what to do in an emergency.