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KNOWLEDGE
WATER SAFETY101
Splash safely this summer, even amidst COVID-19.
IT’S SUMMER, BUT water safety doesn’t take a vacation. way COVID-19 is transmitted is by breathing near other people.
“Drowning is one of the most common causes of death in children “There are three things we know that protect us from the virus:
under age 14,” says Christy Peterson, MD, pediatrician at Atrium masks, social distancing and staying outside,” Dr. Peterson says. “If
Health Navicent. “We recommend multiple layers of protection to you can follow at least two of those three guidelines, you’ll be safer.
help prevent it.” Following just one guideline isn’t as effective.”
Any nonswimmer should have swimming lessons, and children That means being outside is not enough to stop the spread of
should wear Coast Guard-approved life preservers designed for COVID-19. In addition to staying socially distant, wear a mask
kids. Avoid swim floaties; they’re less effective than life jackets and anytime you’re not in the water. This includes while on boats,
can give a false sense of security. unless you are able to stay socially distant or you’re on a boat only
with other members of your household. Carry backup masks with
Parents and guardians should watch kids the entire time they’re you. If your mask gets wet, swap it out for a dry one.
near or in the water.
“Wet masks are more permeable,” Dr. Peterson says. “They won’t
“Drowning only takes a minute, and it can be silent,” Dr. Peterson protect you from the virus.”
says. “Kids need to be watched without distraction.”
Once back on dry land, limit the amount of time spent in changing
STAYING SAFE DURING COVID-19 rooms, bathrooms and other enclosed spaces. Avoid eating or
drinking near others, if possible. If you are going to eat or drink with
As of now, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states others, stay at least 6 feet apart. Finally, wash your hands once you
there is no proof that COVID-19 spreads to people through water. come home, even if you’ve spent all day in the water.
Also, the chlorine levels in pools should kill the virus. The main
6 FEET APART ≈ AT WHAT AGE
SHOULD KIDS
N1OPOODOLLE LEARN TO SWIM?
Kids can learn to swim anytime after their first
birthday, but swim lessons at an early age are
dependent on your comfort level as well as
your child’s.
“I personally recommend starting at age 3,”
says Christy Peterson, MD, pediatrician at
Atrium Health Navicent.
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