5 Pool Safety Tips for Nannies

What to Know Before Going to the Pool

By Monta Fleming of www.gonannies.com

With the long summer days upon us it’s likely that at some point your charges are going to be begging for a trip to the pool. However, taking the kids to the pool can be a risky adventure if you aren’t properly equipped, and parents can be apprehensive about sending their little ones off to swim with their nanny. To help ensure your skills are up to par and your ward’s parents are at ease, take these 5 water safety tips into consideration:

1.      Make sure you are CPR and first aid certified – Should some sort of accident occur to a child in your care it is imperative that you be able to respond quickly and knowledgeably. Having your first aid and CPR certification current can make all the difference. The Red Cross recommends taking the course every two-years. 

2.      Never leave children unattended – The responsibility falls on your shoulders in the event of a water-related accident, so never take your eyes off a child. If you don’t think you can realistically keep an unwavering eye on him, then going to the pool, or in the backyard pool, should not be an option. Avoid texting on your cell phone or reading a book while a child in your care is in the pool. The risks are just too great.

3.      Take swimming lessons – All the safety training in the world could end up being completely in vain if you don’t know how to swim yourself. While you don’t have to be a world-class swimmer, you should feel confident enough in your abilities that you are able to handle both yourself and your charge in the water.

4.      Insist on flotation devices – If the children in your care are young or are unsure of their swimming abilities then flotation devices should be worn in the water at all times. Wearing floatation devices should be non-negotiable for all young children. However, even with the addition of these safety devices, nannies should still keep a vigilant eye on the children.

5.      Be very clear about the rules to the kids – Every trip to the pool should come with a serious reminder about the rules for going to the pool. For instance, there should be no running, life jackets or flotation devices should be worn at all times, and the children should never stray from the nanny. If they aren’t willing to adhere to the specified rules then a trip to the pool shouldn’t be in order.

While swimming at the pool may be a summertime favorite, it’s something that should be approached very cautiously when you, as the nanny, are responsible for taking the kids. There is too much at stake for even the smallest mistake.

Author:
Monta the mother of three children serves as an Expert Advisor on multiple household help issues to many Organizations and groups, and is a mentor for other “Mom-preneurs” seeking guidance.  She is a regular contributor of “senior care jobs.”  You can get in touch with her at montafleming6Atgmail dotcom