Water Safety for Kids: Keep Them Safe with Simple Steps!

Drowning remains a significant concern for families across Australia, with the  World Health Organization estimating that nearly 236,000 people lost their lives to drowning globally in 2019, many of whom were children. In Australia alone,  drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children under five years of age. There were 968 drowning incidents recorded in 2020-21, of which 294 were fatal. With access to a variety of water bodies—from beaches and pools to lakes and rivers—it's crucial for parents to prioritize water safety. This article provides essential tips and strategies to ensure your child's safety around water, helping to create a secure environment where they can enjoy aquatic activities without risk.

Water Safety for Kids Australia, the Basics

• What is the Definition of Water Safety?

Water safety refers to the set of practices and guidelines aimed at preventing drowning and other water-related injuries. It encompasses knowledge about potential risks associated with various water bodies, safe behaviors around water, and emergency response measures. Understanding water safety is essential for both children and parents, as it empowers them to navigate aquatic environments safely.

• What are the Essential Water Safety Tips for Kids?

1. Supervision: As a mother this is my number one priority, always keep a constant watch on your children when they are in or near water. Avoid distractions, such as mobile phones.

2. Learn to Swim: Enroll children in formal swimming lessons to enhance their skills and confidence in the water. 

3. Use Safety Barriers: Children are adventurous and enjoy exploring their environments and the best way to keep them safe  is to ensure that pools and any bodies of water are surrounded by secure fencing and gates to restrict access.

4. Educate on Risks: Teach children about the dangers of various water environments, including pools, bathtubs, and natural bodies of water.

5. Always Wear Life Jackets: Ensure children wear life jackets in open water, regardless of their swimming ability.

6. Reusable swimming nappies:designed to keep baby’s poo contained during swim time while allowing liquids to pass into the water.

• How Do We Teach Kids About Water Safety?

1. Start Early: Introduce your babies to water gradually, using bath time as an opportunity for sensory exploration.

2. Use Play: Engage your children in fun water activities that promote familiarity, such as playing games or using toys in the water.

3. Formal Lessons: If possible enroll kids in swimming classes to provide structured learning and essential skills.

Parents! Be Water Safety Smart

• Water Safety at Home, What to Look Out For

1. Supervise Bath Time: Never leave your children alone in the bath, even for a moment. Drowning can occur in just a few centimeters of water.

2. Install Pool Fences: A compliant fence should surround any pool, and gates must be self-closing and self-latching

3. Remove Hazards: Keep toys, chairs, and other items away from pool barriers to prevent climbing.

4. Use Non-Slip Mats:Place non-slip mats around bathtubs and showers to minimize slip hazards.

• Water Safety Around Dams, Creeks, Ponds, and Tanks

1. Check for Hidden Hazards: Look out for submerged objects, sudden drop-offs, and fast currents.

2. Avoid having a child running around water: They love to run around! I know, however running near these water sources can lead to falls and accidents.

3. Be Aware of Wildlife: Kids are curious, teach them about potential hazards from animals that might inhabit these areas.

• Water Safety Around Beaches, the Sea, Lakes, and Rivers

1. Swim Between the Flags: Always swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present. take a moment to show your children where the designated areas are.

2. Know the Environment: Educate kids about rip currents, tides, and local wildlife.

3. Supervise Closely: Always keep an eye on children, especially in crowded areas.

Other Water Safety for Kids Information to Keep in Mind

• Are Children's  Swimming Lessons Necessary?

Yes! Swimming lessons are a vital component of water safety. They not only teach essential swimming skills but also build confidence in the water. Research shows that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88% in children aged 1 to 4 years. The earlier children learn to swim, the better prepared they are to handle themselves safely in various water situations. Check the perfect  swimming nappies here for a fun swimming lesson.

• Why It Is Essential to Learn CPR as a Parent

No parent wants to see their child suffering and not being able to help, that's why knowing CPR can be lifesaving in emergencies and can empower you as a parent to advocate for your child. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, and every second counts. Parents should be equipped with  CPR training to respond effectively if an accident occurs. Courses are widely available through community organizations and health services, providing valuable skills that can protect your child.

What Is the Water Safety Program in Australia? and Government Initiatives around Australia

The Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030 aims to significantly reduce drowning incidents across the nation. Launched by the Australian Water Safety Council, this strategy includes:

• Collaboration: Involving peak water safety organizations like Royal Life Saving and Surf Life Saving to implement effective measures.
• Community Engagement: Encouraging local communities to develop their water safety plans and enhance access to  swimming and water safety education.
• Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about the importance of water safety through public campaigns and educational resources.

This strategy has shown promising results, with drowning rates declining significantly over the past decade, but ongoing commitment is necessary to achieve the goal of reducing drowning by 50% by 2030.

Australia has a long-standing commitment to water safety, and the government plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of drowning and water-related accidents. Through various programs, funding, and partnerships with water safety organizations, the government aims to protect citizens, particularly children, and ensure that everyone has access to the education and resources needed to stay safe around water. Here are some key government initiatives focused on water safety across the country:

• National Drowning Prevention Week

National Drowning Prevention Week is an annual initiative supported by the Australian Government in partnership with organizations like Royal Life Saving Australia. The week is dedicated to raising public awareness about the dangers of drowning and providing tips on how to prevent water-related incidents. During this week, schools, local governments, and community organizations participate in educational programs and campaigns to reinforce water safety messaging.

•  Pool Fencing Legislation

One of the most effective government initiatives in Australia has been the introduction of  mandatory pool fencing laws across all states and territories. These laws, which require residential pools to be fully fenced with self-closing and self-latching gates, have been instrumental in reducing the number of drownings, particularly among young children. The government regularly reviews and updates these laws to ensure they meet safety standards.

• Water Safety Grants and Funding

The Australian Government provides financial support to water safety organizations through grants and funding programs. These grants help organizations like Surf Life Saving Australia and Royal Life Saving conduct training programs, community education, and drowning prevention campaigns. Funding also supports research into new water safety technologies and strategies for minimizing risks in high-danger environments such as beaches and rivers.

• Active kids vouchers

Active and Creative Kids is a Government program that helps families across Australia to meet the cost of getting their school-aged children into sport, recreational, creative or cultural activities, such as swimming lessons. These are the different initiatives around Australia:

New South Wales 

https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/active-and-creative-kids-voucher
 

Victoria

https://www.getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers/ 
 

Queensland

https://www.queenslandsavers.qld.gov.au/tips-to-save/fairplay-vouchers
 

Western Australia

https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/funding/sport-and-recreation-funding/kidsport
 

South Australia

https://www.sportsvouchers.sa.gov.au/
 

Northern Territory

https://nt.gov.au/leisure/sport/sport-and-swim-vouchers/sport-voucher-scheme-urban/get-sport-vouchers-for-your-child 
 

Tasmania

https://tickettoplay.tas.gov.au/

 

Conclusion: Prioritize Water Safety for a Secure Future

In a country like Australia, where water activities are a cherished part of life, understanding and prioritizing water safety is paramount. Check my blog Swimming with Kids to find out more tips to enjoy swimming with your little ones. With drowning being a leading cause of accidental death for children, the statistics serve as a sobering reminder of the risks involved. By implementing essential water safety tips, educating your children about safe behaviors around water, and ensuring proper supervision, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.

Every parent has the power to make a difference. Take the time to enroll your children in swimming lessons, familiarize them with water safety rules, and learn CPR. Together, we can create a safer environment for our kids to enjoy water activities.

Join the movement toward water safety! Start today by discussing water safety rules with your children and incorporating safe practices into your family’s routine. Let’s work together to ensure every child can thrive in and around water—because safety is a shared responsibility.