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LAYERS OF PROTECTION 

Do You Know How To Prevent Drowning?

 

 

 

 

 

  

1.  EFFECTIVE SUPERVISION

Get IN THE WATER with your child regardless of whether or not he/she is in a flotation device.  Keep constant eyes on your child and have them WITHIN ARMS REACH AT ALL TIMES.  If a child is ever missing, always look in the water FIRST.

Empty all tubs, buckets, containers and kiddie pools immediately after use. Store them upside down so they don’t collect water.

Close toilet lids and use toilet seat locks to prevent drowning. Keep doors to bathrooms and laundry rooms closed. Keep lids and doors closed on the washer and dryer at all times.

 
2.  SEGMENTED SUPERVISION      

During swimming times, designate a Water Watcher who is responsible for keeping eyes on all children in the water for 15 minutes.  Constantly monitor and keep a frequent head count.  Switch with someone else after 15 minutes and make sure everyone knows who is "on duty."

 
3.  WINDOW & DOOR ALARMS

Make sure ALL windows and doors leading to the pool are LOCKED and ALARMED at all times.

 
4.  POOL ALARM AND/OR WEARABLE ALARM

Early warning systems to alert caregivers in the instance of any water submersion.

 
5.  POOL FENCE

4-sided with a SELF-LOCKING gate, at least 5 feet in height, and placed 3-5 feet from the pool deck.  Do not allow children to climb or play on the fence and remove any furniture that could be used as a ladder to climb the fence.  NEVER prop the gate open.  Remind anyone with access to the yard to NEVER prop the gate open either.  

 
6.  SURVIVAL SWIMMING LESSONS

These lessons go beyond traditional lessons to teach the child crucial skills he/she can use to SELF-RESCUE in the event of an aquatic emergency.  

 
7.  CPR

Become certified and update the certification annually.  

Resources for Layers of Protection

How Do I Play In The Water With My Child Who Cannot Swim? 

  • Use splash pads, sprinklers, water tables, slip n slides, etc. until your child is a competent and confident swimmer.
  • If you choose to go to the pool, GET IN THE WATER WITH YOUR CHILD EVERY TIME.
  • Do not use flotation devices as they are not meant for recreational swimming pool use.
  • Have him/her sit on the steps and practice placing their face in the water, after taking a big breath.
  • Practice keeping his/her face in the water for longer periods of time (no more than 4-5 seconds) until he/she is comfortable.  DO NOT BLOW BUBBLES while the face is in the water.
  • Hold them securely around the chest, face them toward you, and allow them to practice kicking. Keep the feet right below the surface of the water when kicking; the feet should not come all the way out of the water.
  • Once he/she is comfortable kicking, have them place the face in the water as well for 4-5 seconds to practice kicking and breath holding at the same time. 
  • NEVER encourage your non-swimming child to jump off the side or the steps into the pool to you.
  • Keep your child WITHIN ARMS REACH at all times.

What About Lifejackets?

  • There are 5 different levels of Personal Flotation Devices (PFD's).  Level I, II, III, IV, and IV.  A Level III is most often what is used for recreation on lakes and rivers.  For more information, CLICK HERE.
  • PFD's are intended for use in open water and on boats, kayaks, and other watercraft and not in a swimming pool for recreational use.
  • Buy several different brands in the same weight range, check for a proper fit, and check that your child can roll to their back in it or that the device will roll them to their back.  ***Some PFD's will keep your child in a face down position or in a vertical position with the face below the surface of the water.  Please do not just buy a PFD without checking all the above things.***
  • Texas boating laws require the use of PFD's.  Find out more HERE
  • The US Coast Guard does NOT recommend having infants on any water craft until he/she is at an appropriate weight to wear an approved PFD. Each brand of infant PFD has a different starting weight minimum, so check it carefully before using.  
  • We offer complimentary lifejacket fittings and testings.  Please call us at 979-676-0841 to schedule one.
  • PFD's are NEVER a replacement for adult supervision when in and around water.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

I was so nervous before Emmy started. But once I met/saw Shellie and how knowledgeable, loving, caring, calm, and gentle she was with the babies I was in awe.... Best thing ever.. Save a life and do this...... Shellie is awesome!!!!!!

Judy Reina Lero

 

Judy Reina Lero

 

Shellie is amazing with all kids. She taught my 2-year old how to swim-float in 6 weeks. It is by far the best investment I’ve made to ensure my daughter knows swim survival skills if she were to fall into a pool.

Kammi Green

 

Kammi Green

 
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