Submitted by the Lifesaving Society Saskatchewan Branch

Spray parks and paddling pools in your local community can be a great place to cool off and entertain the kids. When enjoying the many spray parks and paddling pools this summer, keep the following in mind:

1. Stay within arm’s reach of your preschoolers. Young children can lose their balance easily and fall over into the water. Stay close so that you can intervene if necessary. Drowning can occur within seconds if a child’s face is in the water and they are unable to right themselves.
    
2. Pool supervisors may not be certified lifeguards. In many communities, the pool attendants at spray parks and paddling pools have standard first aid and CPR, but have no lifeguard training. With this in mind, stay within arm’s reach of your preschoolers.
    
3. Water creates slippery surfaces. To avoid slips and falls, ensure you and your children walk at all times. Any footwear should also have appropriate tread. (Be sure the footwear is clean to avoid contaminating the play area.)
    
4. If you bring snacks, be sure that the food is eaten away from the play area to avoid contamination as well as choking.
    
5. Wear sunscreen to protect you and your children from the sun’s damaging rays. Remember that the water will increase the intensity on the skin.

The Lifesaving Society is a national, charitable, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the prevention of drowning and other water-related injuries. For more information, contact their Branch Office in Regina at (306) 780-9255.