Labor Day at the Lake

Spending Labor Day at the lake is a beloved tradition for many families. It offers a chance to enjoy the final days of summer in a relaxing, beautiful setting. That said, before the picnics, barbecues, and leisurely swims… water safety should remain top of mind!

In fact, it is imperative to make sure that everyone, especially children, stays safe around the water. A bit of preparation can help turn a fun-filled day into a worry-free experience. Read on to learn more.

Remembering what Water Safety Matters

Water activities are a staple of Labor Day celebrations. That said, they come with a few inherent risks. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental deaths among children. Unfortunately, drowning is rarely like what we see in movies and television, with thrashing through the water and screaming. Believe it or not, it can often happen quite quickly and quietly. This statistic underscores the importance of proper water safety practices.

Labor Day at the Lake Starts with Active Supervision

One of the most important aspects of water safety on Labor Day at the lake is constant active supervision. We harp on this issue a lot, but that’s because of the importance of the issue. Parents should never leave children unattended near the water, even if they are wearing flotation devices. Focused, undistracted adult supervision is the most effective way to prevent drowning incidents.

Designate a responsible “water watcher” to watch the little ones. These should be switched out in shifts, making sure that someone is always keeping an eye on the kids, but everyone can enjoy Labor Day at the lake.

Don’t Forget the Flotation Devices!

Flotation devices can be helpful but are not a substitute for supervision. The U.S. Coast Guard advises that while life jackets can aid in keeping children afloat, they do not replace the need for close supervision. Make sure any flotation devices used are Coast Guard-approved and fit properly. Inflatable arm bands or pool noodles, while fun, should not be relied upon for safety.

Swim Lessons and Safety Skills

Enrolling children in swim lessons is an excellent way to boost their confidence and safety in the water. Ideally, consider scheduling swim lessons in the months leading up to Labor Day at the lake to make absolutely sure that the kiddos are prepared and comfortable for the water.

Setting Up Safe Play Areas

When planning a day at the lake, it's important to create designated safe play areas. Make sure that young children only play in areas where the water is shallow and away from the main swimming zone. Starting by setting clear boundaries and rules will help minimize the risk of accidents. It’s also a good idea to have a first aid kit readily available and to know the location of the nearest emergency services.

Educate and Communicate

Before heading to the lake, take some time to educate your children about water safety. Discuss the importance of not running around the pool area, not diving into shallow water, and the dangers of swimming alone. Open communication helps children to understand the potential hazards and encourages them to make safer choices. Reinforcing these rules with positive reinforcement will help instill good habits.