Swimming in natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, and oceans is a summer highlight for many individuals and families. But these adventures must be approached with care. Water safety isn't just a checklist—it's a community responsibility that touches on history, access, and equity.

Outdoor Water Safety Tips for Individuals and Families

Understanding Water Condition

Before diving in, it’s essential to assess the specific environmental conditions of the outdoor location:

• Currents and Tides: Even if the water appears calm, hidden currents (especially in rivers or oceans) can be dangerous. Use local sources or apps to check tide schedules and current speeds.
• Temperature: Cold water can trigger shock or impair swimming ability. Always test the water and ensure kids are appropriately dressed for the conditions.
• Weather Forecasts: Avoid swimming during storms or high winds. Lightning and sudden weather shifts can quickly make conditions unsafe.
• Water Quality: Check for posted signs or alerts about water pollution, harmful algae, or unsafe bacteria levels, especially in lakes.

Can we embed a real-time weather and tide widget on our page to help individuals and families plan safely?

Supervision in Outdoor Settings

Children require constant, undistracted supervision in outdoor water environments:

• Designated Water Watchers: Assign one adult at a time to watch children. Rotate regularly but clearly communicate who is “on duty.”
• Within Arm’s Reach: Stay close to young or inexperienced swimmers. Open water can have sudden drop-offs or currents that pull children under quickly.
• Never Swim Alone: Encourage the buddy system and establish group check-ins during water activities.

Developer Tip: Include visual cue cards or a downloadable "Water Watcher Badge" for parents to print and wear.

Safety Gear and Precautions

Having the right gear makes all the difference:

• Life Jackets: Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for kids in lakes, rivers, and oceans—even if they know how to swim.
• Water Shoes: Protect feet from sharp rocks, broken glass, or slippery surfaces in lakes and rivers.
• Flag and Sign Awareness: At beaches, teach children to recognize warning flags and signs. Always follow lifeguard instructions.

Developer Tip: Add infographics showing how to choose the right size and type of life jacket. Interactive sizing tools can also improve engagement. Check out this campaign by our friends at SafeKids Worldwide (link: https://www.safekids.org/blog/ask-expert-how-find-right-life-jacket#:~:text=Read%20the%20label,weight%20and%20intended%20water%20activity.) 

Responding to Emergencies

Preparedness is key to preventing tragedies:

• Learn CPR: Adults and older teens should be certified in CPR. Many local organizations offer free or low-cost classes.
• Emergency Plan: Know the exact location (including nearby landmarks or GPS coordinates) in case you need to call emergency services.
• Rip Currents: Teach kids to swim parallel to shore if caught in a rip current—never against it.
• Basic First Aid: Have a first-aid kit accessible with bandages, antiseptics, and emergency contact information.

Developer Tip: Embed a short, ADA-compliant CPR training video or link to trusted organizations offering certification.

Taking Action Together

Water safety begins with awareness and grows through community action. By equipping families with the knowledge, tools, and support they need, we can ensure every child—regardless of background—has a safe, joyful experience in aquatic spaces.