Brighter Swimsuits are Easier to Spot
As we get closer to pool and beach season, many families are preparing to stock up on bathing suits. However, here’s one word of warning. The color of your child’s outfit on the beach or in the pool area is more important than many people realize. Put simply, brighter swimsuits are easier to spot.
Why Brighter Swimsuits?
As always, it is crucial for parents and kids alike to be alert and aware of the risks associated with being around water. For one, drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental deaths in children. As far too many tragedies show, these incidents are often quiet and can happen to anyone, even competent swimmers.
To test which colors are easiest to see underwater, the water safety company ALIVE Solutions conducted a study in which swimsuits of various color hues were submerged in a lake and a pool. The study found that bright and contrasting colors, like neon yellow, neon green, and neon orange are the most visible, while white and light blue are the least visible. It's also essential to consider other environmental factors that may impact visibility, such as water clarity, lighting, currents, and the weather.
Keeping Warm and Limiting Pool Time
Besides choosing brighter swimsuits, there are other factors to consider when choosing a swimsuit. This is especially true for babies and toddlers. Keeping in mind the sensitivity of a baby's skin, it's crucial to choose a swimsuit that can provide protection and warmth.
Two of the safest options for babies are one-piece suits and wetsuits, rather than relying on cute but potentially risky bikini briefs. Baby wetsuits are made of neoprene material, which helps to keep the baby warm in the water and often includes an integrated swim diaper.
Keep in mind that babies are much more vulnerable to harsh pool chemicals such as chlorine and bromine. Though these can clean the pool, they can also irritate the little ones’ skin. Thermal one-piece suits provide maximum protection, with a focus on warmth, and coverage of the arms and legs.
Moreover, the cold temperature of the water can easily overwhelm a baby since their body temperature is slightly different from adults. Parents and guardians should also limit a baby's time in the water, as 10 to 15 minutes is sufficient for their small bodies.
CPR and Safety Training
Finally, active supervision and proper training are another key factor in swimming safety for babies. It’s important to be aware that drowning can happen in any body of water, not just in a pool or lake. Children can drown in as little as two inches of water, which means that bathtubs, buckets, and even toilets can pose potential hazards.
Basic first-aid training and CPR certification are excellent skills to have for anyone planning to spend time around water this summer. These skills can be lifesaving for children or other adults.
Teaching children how to swim and behave safely around water is crucial for preventing drowning incidents. Children can start swimming lessons earlier than many parents realize. A bit of knowledge can go a long way.
