Summer in San Antonio means sun, fun, and plenty of time in the water. Whether you’re heading to a city pool, a backyard splash party, or a neighborhood swim club, pool safety should always come first, especially for families with children.
Every year, preventable accidents happen around water. With just a few simple precautions, we can all help keep our neighbors, kids, and loved ones safe.
Quick Stats to Know
- According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of death in the U.S. for children ages 1-4 years and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5-14 years
- According to the U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission, drowning can happen in as little as 2 inches of water, even in small kiddie pools.
Pool Safety Tips for Families
-
Never Leave Children Unattended
- Always have a designated “water watcher.” Avoid distractions like phones or long conversations.
- Even strong swimmers need supervision.
-
Learn CPR
- Knowing how to respond in an emergency can save a life.
- CPR classes are available through local health organizations and city programs.
-
Teach Children Water Safety
- Enroll kids in age-appropriate swim lessons.
- Teach them to ask for permission before going near water.
-
Secure Pools at Home
- Use self-latching gates and four-sided fencing around pools.
- Keep pool toys out of the water when not in use to avoid temptation.
-
Use Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets
- Floaties are fun, but they’re not a substitute for real safety gear.
- Life jackets should be snug, so choose the appropriate size for a child’s weight.
Visit City Pools Safely
San Antonio’s public pools are a great way to beat the heat and have fun, and they’re staffed with trained lifeguards to help ensure everyone’s safety.
Many city pools offer:
- Free or low-cost swim lessons
- Lifeguard-supervised open swim hours
Water aerobics and family events
Here are some right here in our district: Southside Lions Park and Kingsborough Park.
Don’t Forget Your Pets!
Pools and lakes can be fun for pets, but water poses risks for them too. Keep these tips in mind:
- Not all dogs can swim. Know your pet’s ability before letting them in the water.
- Supervise pets around water just like you would a child.
- Use pet life jackets, especially for small dogs or those swimming in deep or unfamiliar areas.
- Secure pool areas with fences or covers when not in use to prevent accidental falls.
- Keep pets hydrated and cool, never assume pool water is a safe substitute for drinking water.
Know the Signs of Trouble
Whether it’s kids, adults, or pets, here are some red flags to watch for in and around water:
- Sudden silence or stillness
- Struggling to stay above water
- Gasping, coughing, or bobbing
- Fatigue or confusion after swimming
- Heat exhaustion symptoms (especially in pets and seniors)
A Safe Summer is a Fun Summer
San Antonio has so many great ways to enjoy the water, from splash pads and city pools to backyard barbecues with family and friends. With a little awareness and care, we can make sure everyone – two-legged or four-legged – stays safe while having fun.
Share this with a neighbor or friend, let’s keep our community safe and cool this summer!