Here are some simple water safety tips to follow when planning your next family vacation:

• Enforce the same safety rules you use at home. Take time to explain the importance of following these same rules to your children.
• Never allow children to swim unsupervised in a hotel/motel pool: Never assume someone else is watching your child.
• Check out the pool before you swim: Is the water clean and clear? Where is the deep end? Is there a lifeguard on duty? Where is the rescue equipment, and how is it used? Where is the phone, and can you dial out directly?
• When staying at a relative or friend’s home, look for possible water hazards (pools, ponds, buckets, bathtubs, toilets, dog bowls, etc.).
• When boating, wear a Coast Guard approved lifejacket: When planning boating events, make sure to pack a lifejacket for each person. Children are required to wear a lifejacket at all times in a boat in many states. Bring along other items that float such as cooler, cushions, etc.
• Know what is in and under an open water area: Find out about hazards such as marine life, parasites, currents, drop-offs, very cold water, or submerged objects. Enter all unfamiliar water feet first.
• If the water is shared by boats, BE VISIBLE: Have your child wear a bright colored swim cap, stay close to shore, and actively watch for boats.
• Know what to do if your child falls in the river: Go downstream immediately to position yourself to help.