With the hot summer months in full swing, many parents wonder at what age they should begin swimming lessons for their child. A recent study from the U.S. National Institute of Health suggests that swimming lessons for babies and toddlers can provide an extra level of security for children when they are around water. Babies and toddlers who learn the fundamentals of floating and who are exposed to water on a regular basis have a better chance of staying afloat if they fall into water.

Check with your local swim club or YMCA on the availability of swim lessons for babies. In most cases, a parent participates in the class along with their child. Babies can learn to overcome any fear they have of water and parents can feel a bit more secure, but it’s important to remember that enrolling your baby or toddler in swimming lessons does not mean that water safety rules can be ignored. See this earlier post about Pool Safety.

A backyard swimming pool is a great asset for a homeowner.  It can increase the value of a home and provide hours of fun and relaxation for the entire family.  Along with the benefits of pool ownership comes responsibility, since a pool can also be a hazard.  Here are some tips for backyard pool safety.

• Make sure everyone knows how to swim.  Adults and children alike should know the basics of swimming.

• Don’t leave children unattended.  Have an adult who isn’t swimming supervise children while they’re in the pool.  Children under the age of five should have an adult with them in the pool.

• Fence the pool.  A high fence which is separated from the house should be installed around a backyard swimming pool.  The fence should have a gate which closes and locks automatically.

• Keep pool area safe.  Keep flotation devices including a pole, rope and flotation devices near the pool and learn how to use them.  Keep the pool deck clear of toys when not in use.

By being aware of pool safety, you’ll avoid injury around the pool and keep all your family experiences around the pool enjoyable.