Colorado offers incredible water recreation opportunities — from mountain lakes and rivers to backyard pools and splash pads. As Colorado parents, keeping our kids safe around water is a top priority. Here are our top 5 water safety tips.
1. Enroll Your Child in Swim Lessons
Formal swim lessons are the single most effective way to reduce drowning risk. Studies show that swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% in children ages 1-4. Start early and continue year-round for the best results.
2. Always Supervise — Eyes on the Water
Active supervision means keeping your eyes on children at all times when they’re near water. Designate a responsible adult as the “water watcher” and avoid distractions like phones, books, or conversation.
3. Learn CPR
CPR is a critical life-saving skill that every parent should know. In a drowning emergency, the minutes before paramedics arrive are crucial. CPR can keep oxygen flowing to the brain and dramatically improve outcomes.
4. Use Proper Safety Equipment
Ensure children wear US Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or near open water. Remember: inflatable toys, water wings, and pool noodles are NOT safety devices.
5. Teach Water Safety Rules
Establish clear rules: always ask before going near water, never swim alone, no running near pools, and know how to call for help. Teaching children to respect water is just as important as teaching them to swim.
At Little Fins Swim School in Colorado Springs, we’re passionate about keeping Colorado families safe around water. Contact us to learn more about our year-round swim lesson programs!
