What Do Parents Need to Know About Water Safety in Los Angeles?

Water safety is a critical concern for families in Los Angeles, especially given the abundance of public pools and proximity to the coast. The statistics are alarming: drowning is the leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 4, with an increase in drowning rates during the pandemic. In 2022, 461 children in this age group died in drowning incidents across the United States. With a climate that’s almost perfect for swimming year-round, it’s imperative for parents in areas like Los Angeles to stay proactive about water safety.

*This post is sponsored and written by Swim Right Academy, a year-round swimming program in Los Angeles.

Water Safety Tips for Parents

1. Start Swim Lessons Early
   The CDC recommends starting swim lessons for children early to increase water comfort and prevent drowning. Even babies can benefit from introductory swim lessons. In Santa Monica, options like SwimRight Academy offer courses specifically for kids, which are accessible to families across the Los Angeles region.
2. Ensure Active Supervision
   Swim lessons do not replace active supervision. Always keep a close eye on children around water, even if they know how to swim, as young children can still face risks without an adult nearby.
3. Install Safety Barriers
   For families with home pools, a pool fence at least four feet tall is essential. The barrier should fully enclose the pool and have a self-closing, self-latching gate to prevent unsupervised access.
4. Learn CPR
   Knowing CPR can be life-saving. Immediate action can make a difference while waiting for medical help. Many organizations throughout Los Angeles, including in Santa Monica, offer CPR training courses for parents and caregivers.
5. Avoid Alcohol Around Water
   Avoid consuming alcohol while supervising children in or around water. Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, increasing accident risks. This rule applies to all water activities.
6. Be Aware of Lifeguard Availability
   Lifeguard shortages are a persistent issue in Los Angeles County, impacting pool hours and swim lesson availability. When planning, check on local lifeguard availability and take extra care if they are not present.
7. Educate Children About Water Safety
   Teaching children about water dangers and the importance of safety rules, such as not running by the pool or swimming alone, can help prevent accidents.
   

Addressing Lifeguard Shortages

Lifeguard shortages in Los Angeles County, including Santa Monica, have resulted in reduced pool hours and canceled lessons in certain areas. In response, the county has raised lifeguard wages by 20%, but shortages may persist. Parents should stay informed about pool operations and have alternative options in place when lifeguards are unavailable.

Community and Public Pool Access

Increasing public pool access can help reduce the risk of drowning. The CDC encourages developing public pools to ensure everyone, including those with disabilities, has safe access to swim. In Santa Monica, supporting initiatives for affordable swimming and water safety lessons is vital. These efforts benefit not only Santa Monica but also the surrounding communities in Los Angeles.

The Importance of Water Safety Skills

An estimated 40 million adults in the United States cannot swim, and more than half have never taken a swimming lesson. This underscores the importance of water safety education for all ages. Parents who can swim confidently are better able to supervise their children and set a positive example.