Summer is here, and that means more time at pools, lakes, splash pads, and backyard swimming parties. While water activities are a wonderful way for children to stay active and cool off, water safety is one of the most important conversations families can have each summer.

At Julie Tomberlin MD PA, Mansfield pediatrician Julie Tomberlin MD and her excellent nurse practitioners want families to enjoy the summer safely while helping prevent one of the leading causes of accidental injury and death in children — drowning.

Important Water Safety Tips for Children

1. Never Leave Children Unsupervised Near Water

Drowning can happen quickly and silently — often in less than a minute. Even strong swimmers should always have supervision around water.

For younger children, designate a “water watcher” adult whose only job is supervising children in the water without distractions like phones or conversations.

2. Use Proper Pool Barriers

Home pools should have:

• Four-sided fencing
• Self-latching gates
• Locked access when not in use

Many childhood drownings happen when children wander into pool areas unexpectedly.

3. Start Swim Lessons Early

Many children benefit from swim lessons beginning around age 1, depending on developmental readiness. Swim lessons can improve confidence and water skills, but they do not replace supervision.

4. Use Life Jackets Around Lakes and Boats

Puddle jumpers and floaties are not substitutes for Coast Guard-approved life jackets, especially in open water environments.

5. Be Careful After Swimming

Dry drowning and “secondary drowning” are uncommon, but parents should seek medical attention if a child develops:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent coughing
• Extreme fatigue
• Vomiting
• Behavioral changes after a water incident

Additional Summer Safety Reminders

• Apply sunscreen regularly
• Encourage hydration during outdoor play
• Take breaks from heat and sun exposure
• Avoid swimming during storms

At Julie Tomberlin MD PA, we are committed to helping families keep children healthy and safe all summer long. Julie Tomberlin MD and her excellent nurse practitioners provide compassionate pediatric care for newborns, children, and teens in Mansfield and surrounding communities.

Call us today to schedule your child’s summer well visit or sports physical:

682-518-8111

https://www.jt-md.com

Mansfield pediatrician | Pediatric water safety | Summer safety for kids | Child drowning prevention | Swim safety tips