Swim Season Safety: Expert Tips for Keeping Kids Safe in the Water This Summer

As swim season approaches, safety and skill development take center stage for swimmers of all ages. With drowning remaining a leading cause of unintentional injury death for children, experts emphasize that swimming is not only a competitive sport but a vital life skill requiring proper training, supervision, and water competence.

According to the American Red Cross, swimming is a life skill everyone should have, but true safety goes beyond basic strokes. Their Learn-to-Swim program, led by Water Safety Instructor® certified professionals, focuses on building water competence — which includes being water smart, knowing how to prevent and respond to emergencies, and developing skills for various aquatic environments.

The Red Cross advises swimmers to always provide close and constant attention to children in or near water, even when lifeguards are present. An adult should remain within arm’s length of young or inexperienced swimmers, and distractions such as cell phones, reading, or alcohol consumption must be avoided during supervision, as drowning can occur silently and in as little as 20 seconds.

For backyard pools, safety measures include installing a four-sided fence with self-closing, self-latching gates, removing pool covers completely before use, and emptying kiddie pools after each use. Hot tubs should also be covered when not in use. These precautions help prevent unsupervised access, a common factor in residential drowning incidents.

Swimmers are encouraged to never swim alone and to always use the buddy system. Designating a “water watcher” during group activities ensures consistent supervision. Young or inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, though these should never replace adult supervision or be substituted with water wings, swim rings, or inflatable toys, which can create a false sense of security.

Beyond safety, improving swimming performance involves mastering fundamental techniques. Experts recommend focusing on body position to reduce drag, efficient arm movement with proper entry and pull, strong leg kicks originating from the hips, and rhythmic breathing techniques that maintain stroke consistency. Swim efficiency increases when these elements work together, allowing swimmers to conserve energy and improve endurance.

Swimming lessons are valuable not only for children but also for adults looking to build confidence or refine their skills. The Red Cross notes it’s never too late to learn, and benefits grow with age. Regular practice through structured swimming training — including drills for stroke technique, breathing control, and turn efficiency — helps swimmers progress from basics to advanced performance.

As facilities prepare for increased seasonal use, programs emphasizing both safety and skill development aim to reduce risks while promoting lifelong engagement in the sport. Whether for recreation, fitness, or competition, combining water safety education with proper technique training creates a foundation for confident, capable swimmers.