As the weather warms, families spend more time near and on the water. It’s important for parents to recognize the potential for accidents and to utilize appropriate safety measures when recreating near lakes, rivers and swimming pools.

In observance of May as National Water Safety Month, the Plymouth Public Safety Department offers important safety tips that parents should know and keep in mind at all times when near water.

1. Drowning is instant and silent.
2. Give your undivided attention to watching swimmers – no texting, reading or using personal media, etc.
3. Walk around the pool with your kids.
   • Identify the shepherd’s hook and ring buoy.
   • Teach them that they can use these rescue tools to reach or throw, but they should never go into the water to help a submerged or troubled swimmer.
   • Identify the depth markers around the pool. Tell them specifically where the deep end is and what areas of the pool are appropriate for them.
   • Teach them to never play by or near pool drains.
4. Unskilled swimmers should wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
5. Babies and toddlers should wear swim diapers.
6. Carry a cell phone and dial 911 immediately in an emergency.
7. Enroll your children in swimming lessons. Lessons are available to babies as early as six months old.

For safety tips on other warm-weather recreational activities, visit the Safety Information page.