Sometimes, it may seem that bath times are the only times when little children don’t seem to like water. When left unattended though, they’re almost drawn to it. Hence, parents of toddlers, especially, should be particularly aware of water safety to prevent any untoward incidents.
Wherever there’s water
It’s important to keep a close watch on your baby or toddler if there is any water nearby, no matter how shallow it is. Babies and toddlers are top-heavy, which makes it easy for them to just topple over. If a little child falls into even shallow water, it may not be easy for the little one to lift himself out in time whilst trying not to drown.
Constant supervision
By, supervision, we do not mean an occasional glance while you nap, read or chat while your toddler is enjoying himself at the kiddie pool or even the tiny inflatable pool at your porch or driveway. We certainly don’t mean watching your little one playing outside while you’re inside either. Lastly, supervising should be done by an adult and not an older child who might be too busy playing in the water to notice if anything happens to the younger one.
When it comes to water safety, an adult’s full attention is needed so that a small child can be kept safe and drowning can be prevented.
Reminder
Always empty the baby bath as soon as you’re finished with it so older siblings can’t climb in. Empty sinks, tubs, buckets, baths, and paddling pools too when you’re finished with them.
Water safety at home
Bathrooms can turn out to be a dangerous place for a toddler to venture into unnoticed. As mentioned earlier, their top-heavy bodies may work against them even if they were to peek into a bucket of water meant for mopping the house, a bathtub that’s being filled, or even the toilet. Drowning usually happens quickly and silently, as many unfortunate families have found out in the past.
Latch all bathroom doors when not in use and remind older family members to do the same. Ensure too that the bathtub is always drained after use as an added safety precaution.
The water around your property
If you live on landed property, it would be good to note and be especially aware if there are any drains, ponds, or other bodies of water nearby. Take extra precautions to ensure that your children do not have access to these places.
In public swimming pools
Parents generally have no qualms about letting their toddlers frolicked at public swimming pools. It’s a good way to socialise too, and have some fun splashing around. Do not make the mistake however, in assuming that since there are many adults at the kiddie pool, all children using it including yours are safe. Little children drowning in public pools while playing with others are not uncommon, especially when parents take it for granted that someone will watch their child. Always keep physically close to your child to prevent any tragic incidents.
Water safety is just as important as any other safety aspect when it comes to parenting. Paying close attention to your little ones’ whereabouts together with close supervision during playtimes are crucial in preventing devastating incidents.
