It’s a no-brainer that life jackets are needed to make sure kids stay afloat. Even when the water looks calm and inviting, you can never be too prepared for unexpected danger. The most possible risk factors include other people’s irresponsible or malicious actions and the inherent danger of currents and tides. Families can enjoy peace of mind when their children’s safety is guaranteed while swimming through the use of life jackets.
If your child doesn’t have one yet, it’s good to invest in this flotation device before heading out for your summer water activities. Until such a time when you’re confident enough in your child’s swimming abilities, never let them be in the water without one. For more details, check The SUP HQ for a wide array of life jackets.
There are very compelling reasons why life jackets should be considered essentials for children. These include the following.
1. You’re Prepared For Emergency Situations When Swimming
Source: nbcnews.com
Swimming is always one of the most enjoyable summer activities for families. The only problem with it is that it’s also filled with so many inherent risks. It doesn’t hurt to take a proactive approach by letting your child wear a life jacket at all times, so that you’re prepared right away just in case an emergency occurs.
You may think that when an emergency situation comes, you’ll have enough time to swim to your child and save them. However, this isn’t always the case. Drowning is potentially life-threatening, so this isn’t something to take for granted.
Along with wearing a life vest, here are other important safety tips to remember for water safety:
- Always read warning signs, so you’re fully aware of where the deep areas are;
- Be careful when getting in and out of the pool to prevent slipping;
- Stay in areas within your swimming capabilities, which means that you should let your child stay only in the area where you know they can be safe and comfortable;
- Let your kids play carefully, as tumbling and wrestling in the water can be dangerous;
- Watch for hazards like big drains, where your small child might get sucked in.
When safety measures are ensured, you can now fully enjoy your time in the open water, especially when you bring the best stand up paddle boards like the ones shown here.
.2. It Gives Rescuers Or Lifeguards Safer Control Over Your Child
Source: leisurepro.com
Some parents rely on the thought that they can easily manage their children, especially if the kids are well-behaved. However, exercising control can be difficult once you’re in the water.
For instance, in an open-water environment, it can be challenging to scout the features of the ocean floor. There might be unknown deep areas in the underwater terrain, which will make it more difficult for you to carry and rescue your child. There are also sudden changes in temperature and the current to think about.
Even with the presence of lifeguards who are more experienced in swimming, it’s not a guarantee that they’ll have full control over your child. It’s especially hard to predict how your child will behave in an emergency situation.
Rescuers or lifeguards are in a better position to assist your child if they’re wearing a life jacket. The rescuer will have safer control over your child since they don’t have to carry them fully. In fact, it’s easier to pull them to safety when there’s already a device keeping them afloat. All you have to do is hold on to the life jacket with your child and help them relax during the rescue.
3. It Reduces The Impact Of Falling Into The Water
Source: preventionworks-nj.org
It’s also important to wear a life jacket when you’re out boating or trying out a flying fish or paddle board. During these fun activities, it’s common for people to fall off the water sports equipment. A life jacket can reduce the impact of falling into the water. The added pressure of the impact can make the water feel as hard as cement. If you’re not careful, the shock of the cold water can affect your muscles and even your brain. Resulting in paralysis and hypothermia.
Just imagine how much more concerning this danger is when you’re dealing with children who have smaller and weaker bodies. Some may even get killed right away because of the impact. With a life jacket, this dangerous impact is reduced. The life jacket will help you bounce back and float rather than shoot directly through the water. Plus, it can also give an added layer of warmth.
Conclusion
While drowning is a common cause of death in bodies of water and national parks, it’s actually preventable. As you’ve learned from the points above, if you only take that extra step of letting your child wear a life vest, you can spell the difference between life and death. Even the most experienced swimmers find themselves in emergencies. So, if you don’t have one yet, it’s about time for you to head out and purchase a life jacket for your kids.
