AMARILLO, TEXAS -- In the land of "children", it's summer time and you know what that means to them -- pools are open!
But before you let your child make a splash, you might want to refresh their minds with some general safety tips.
No running...
"Wet feet and wet concrete are never a good combination. Kids are always in a hurry to get to the next destination", says Parks and Recreation Aquatic Supervisor Janice Young.
Be careful when you dive...
"Of course no diving in shallow water. I've seen several adults dive into shallow water and so, it's never a good idea. You wouldn't ever stand at your bath tub and dive in so you wouldn't want to do it in the shallow water at the pool", Young adds.
And surprisingly, no arm floaties.
"We don't actually encourage arm floaties. We prefer the US Coast Guard life jacket approved. Those are a lot safer", said Young.
And while public city pools have lifeguards on standby that doesn't mean you shouldn't keep a watchful eye on your child, just in case.
Young believes, "it really just comes down to parental supervision. We're having to make a little active rescues on the children that are unsupervised so we're really encouraging parents to come out and stay within arms reach of their children."
But kids will be kids and you can't prevent everything. So what should you do if there's an accident?
"A parent should call 9-1-1 first and foremost. You want to be sure to roll them over in the water, stabilize their neck, get them out of the water and perform the CPR or what other services you need", said Red Cross Executive Director Jana Gregory.
One easy way to help make sure your children are safe in the water -- make sure they are good swimmers!
"Swimming lessons started today at all the city pools and that is a great way to get your kids introduced into the water", says Young.
Teach your kids how to swim, be safe and know how to respond and you might just get to relax a little by the pool yourself.
All City Pools are offering swimming lessons to children and parents -- a group lesson, a private lesson, or a parent and child lesson. For more information about how to register your child for swimming lessons, check out the Parks and Recreation website.
