General water safety

To reduce the risk of drowning in any swimming environment:

• Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Parents and child care providers should know CPR.
• Supervise. Never leave children unsupervised near a pool, hot tub or natural body of water. During gatherings, adults who know how to swim can take turns being the "designated watcher," who isn't distracted. Children under age 4 should be supervised at arm's length, even if they can swim. Don't rely on air-filled or foam toys, such as water wings, noodles or inner tubes, to keep children safe.
• Teach children to swim. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most children age 4 and older can learn to swim. Children ages 1 to 4 might be able to learn depending on their physical and emotional development. Swimming lessons, however, don't necessarily prevent drowning and aren't a substitute for adult supervision.
• Avoid alcohol. Don't drink alcohol when you are boating, swimming or supervising children who are swimming.