Let’s talk about something that’s super important this time of year (and honestly, all year long): water safety. As the weather warms up, many of us will be spending more time around pools, lakes, and splash pads. But before we start packing beach towels and floaties, we need to have a real conversation about keeping our kids safe around water.
So, what is Water Safety Month?
National Water Safety Month, founded by the NWSM Coalition, is recognized every May and brings together organizations like Aqua-Tots, the American Red Cross, and the National Drowning Prevention Alliance to raise awareness and help prevent drowning incidents. It’s a time for all of us—parents, caregivers, and communities—to learn, share, and prioritize life-saving water safety practices.
What does “water safety” mean, really?
Water safety includes everything from active adult supervision and swim lessons to installing pool fences and teaching kids to respect the water. It’s about reducing risk and increasing confidence—because when kids are safer, we all feel better.
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Why is water safety such a big deal?
Because the statistics are sobering:
- Drowning is the #1 cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1–4 and the second for kids up to age 14. (CDC)
- 69% of kids under 5 who drowned weren’t even expected to be near the water at the time. (Consumer Product Safety Commission)
- 80% of child drownings happen in a residential pool—while an adult is present. (Stop Drowning Now)
- And here’s a hopeful stat: formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% among kids 1–4 years old. (National Institutes of Health)
That last one is key—and exactly why I want to highlight Aqua-Tots Swim School right here in Peoria.
Why Aqua-Tots is the place for swim lessons in Peoria
There are a lot of options out there for swim lessons, but Aqua-Tots stands out for so many reasons:
- Their program is specifically designed for water safety, with certified instructors who know how to build skills and confidence in children of all ages.
- They offer consistent, year-round lessons (because water safety isn’t just a summer thing!)
- The environment is clean, friendly, and focused on fun + function—kids love it, and parents trust it.
- Aqua-Tots is an active participant in National Water Safety Month, teaming up with national organizations to promote education and save lives.
Plus… Macaroni KID Peoria families can get their first lesson FREE when they sign up through the QR code! 🙌
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6 Must-Know Water Safety Tips from Aqua-Tots
Here’s what they want every family to remember:
- Adult Supervision: Always keep young kids within arm’s reach, and assign a designated Water Watcher.
- Physical Barriers: Pools should have a fence, a self-latching gate that locks, and a door alarm to prevent unsupervised water access. Inside the house, keep bathroom doors closed, toilet lids latched, and buckets of water empty.
- Swim Lessons: Lessons help children develop swimming skills, understand safe boundaries, and gain confidence in the water.
- Pool Rules: Set and follow clear pool rules: No running or roughhousing near the water. Know the depth of the pool and only dive where it's safe. Always put toys away after swimming so small children aren't tempted to reach for them and fall in.
- Life Jackets: Use only U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around lakes and open water.
- CPR & First Aid: Get certified and keep a phone close in case of emergencies.
And if you’re ready to give your child the skills they need to be safer and more confident around water, don’t wait—jump in today!
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