Water Safety and Swimming Basics

Water can be fun and safe

Splashing in the water is so much fun! But water needs special care. Let's learn how to stay safe. 🏊

The most important rule: never go near water without a grown-up watching you. Not the pool, the sea, or even the bath.

Pool safety rules

When you are by a pool, follow these rules:

• Always walk, never run. The ground is wet and slippery.
• Stay where you can stand or hold the wall.
• Only get in when a grown-up says it is okay.
• Never push or jump on other people.

Blowing bubbles

A great first step is blowing bubbles.

1. Take a big breath.
2. Put your mouth near the water.
3. Blow out slowly and make bubbles!

This helps you get used to water near your face. Try it lots of times.

Learning to float

Floating means lying on the water without sinking.

• Ask your grown-up to gently hold your back.
• Lie back and look up at the sky.
• Spread your arms out wide.
• Stay calm and breathe slowly.

The water will hold you up. Floating is calm and quiet.

Kicking your legs

Hold the side of the pool or your grown-up's hands. Now kick your legs up and down. Splash, splash! Kicking helps you move through the water.

Keep your legs long and kick from your hips. Make a big splash with your feet!

Water safety rules to remember

These rules keep you safe at the pool, the beach, or any water:

• Always have a grown-up watching you.
• Walk, do not run.
• Do not go in deep water until you can swim well.
• Listen to the lifeguard and your teacher.
• If a friend needs help, shout for a grown-up. Do not jump in to save them yourself.

If you feel scared

It is okay to feel scared sometimes. If you do:

• Tell your grown-up right away.
• Hold the wall or hold their hands.

They will keep you safe.

You are a water safety star!

You know the rules, how to blow bubbles, and how to float. Keep learning to swim with a teacher and a grown-up close by.

When you are out of the water, learn Why Warming Up Matters and try Learning to Run and Move.