NEW YORK (CNN) – Its summertime and one way to beat the heat is to jump in the water at your favorite swimming spot.
For some that’s the pool or lake, for others the ocean, but no matter your choice, remember to follow a few safety rules to keep you and your loved ones safe.
If you have young children, get them into swimming lessons early. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, formal swimming lessons can dramatically reduce the risk of drowning among children 1 to 4 years of age.
If you are in charge of young swimmers, be vigilant and supervise them closely. Don’t take your eye off the kids or get distracted. Drownings can occur very quickly and quietly. Also, learn CPR if you don’t yet have that skill.
Another good rule is to have little ones wear life jackets, even if they know how to swim. For older children, using the buddy system can help keep swimmers safe.
If you have a backyard pool, fence it off and install secure gates so no one uninvited can swim without your knowledge. A pool alarm is also a good idea. Experts also recommend clearing the pool area of toys and floats so young children won’t be tempted to try to play by the pool unsupervised.