10 Golden Rules of Water Safety & Drowning Prevention

We don’t teach people how to swim just because it’s a job. We here at SwimJim genuinely have a desire to help as many people enjoy their time in the water in as safe a manner as possible. To hopefully help aid in that effort, we have provided our top 10 water safety rules/tips to hopefully help you stay safe and have a great time the next time you’re in the water.

  1. Never swim alone: Always make sure someone watches you when you swim.  Even adults.
  2. Learn to swim: At six months, children should start swimming lessons.  Adults who don’t know how should learn to swim too.
  3. Learn to save lives: Parents & caregivers should get certified in CPR & first aid.  Always keep a phone ready in case of emergencies.
  4. Look out for others: Always swim with a buddy: call for help when someone is in trouble.  Never try rescue alone.
  5. Pack a Life Jacket: take Coast Guard-approved life jackets when going to the beach, lake or pool party to float properly. Never depend on inflatable floaties and toys. They are designed to entertain – not to save lives.
  6. Make sure the water is safe: Is the water clear? Can you see the drain at the bottom of the pool? Is someone responsible watching?
  7. Check the pool: Does it have a fence and working gate that stays shut? A weight-bearing pool cover? Without those, children or pets can fall in easily and drown.  Who is the lifeguard or supervisor?
  8. “Reach and throw – don’t go!” : Never try to save anyone by jumping in yourself; then two people are at risk.  Throw them something that floats, or grab a pole that reaches them. Yell yell YELL for help and call 911.
  9. Never dive in shallow water: Ask the lifeguard or a parent where it is safe to dive. Don’t dive if there’s no one to ask.
  10. Obey pool and water safety rules: No running, no eating, no gum, no glass containers.  Get out at the first sign of thunderstorms or lightning.  If there is no lifeguard or supervising adult, wait until later to swim.