“It’s the strong swimmers who drown”.
As contrasting as that sounds, there is truth in it.
While skilled swimmers may seem to be at less risk in the water than weaker swimmers, skilled or strong swimmers can still drown.
So, when can I let my child swim on their own? What puts strong swimmers at risk?
We explore this and more just below…
Should Skilled Swimmers Be Monitored?
The answer to this will always be, yes!
Not only children, but adults should also practice water safety habits when it comes to swimming. For example, we recommend:
- Not swimming alone
- Not swimming while intoxicated
- Always wearing a lifejacket in open water situations
- Being wary of the conditions of natural bodies of water (freezing temps, strong currents, riptides)
- Not holding your breath for an extended time
For children who are skilled swimmers, here are a few of the main reasons why accidents and drownings may occur:
- Less likely to have supervision
- Overconfident in one’s abilities
- More likely to take risks (like swimming alone or swimming at night)
In either case, drowning and serious water-related mishaps are avoidable.
At What Age Can My Child Swim Alone?
Children should ALWAYS swim with supervision, by a parent who’s a skilled swimmer themselves or by a lifeguard and should never swim alone.
Children who have not been introduced to basic swim skills should be closely supervised and within arm’s reach at all times.
Ideally, you want to have someone who is knowledgeable and attentive to supervise a child or a group of children and teens.
The person supervising should not be distracted (socializing, using a phone or tablet, reading a book, etc). They should also not be using any drugs or alcohol and solely focused on those in or around the water.
We know that isn’t always possible which is why we offer our lifeguard for hire service where we will send a lifeguard to your location on the day and time you request.
All Peace Of Mind Lifeguards are certified, insured, and of course water competent. They will be able to perform proper rescuing techniques in case of an accident and also perform CPR if needed.
Water supervision should be treated like the job it is!
Another measure you can take is to ensure your strong swimmer takes a basic swimming class if they have never taken one.
What Makes A Strong Swimmer?
For many people who have not tried water safety instruction, here’s what you can expect.
In our private swim lessons, we teach skills such as proper breath control, fully immersing confidently, floating positions on front and back, proper kicking, and proper arms. We disguise learning through fun and games and focus our teaching so that children understand what it means to be safe. Once children are deemed water competent, we begin stroke development and help them become stronger swimmers.
Key Takeaways
No one person is immune to drowning regardless of their skill level and abilities. Simple precautions can make a huge difference and reduce risks. A few key points preventing skilled swimmers from drowning:
- Supervise children and teens in and around the water. Keep an eye on adults
- Avoid swimming at night and never swim alone
- Do not hold your breath for an extended period of time
- Wear a life jacket when in open water
- Be wary of the swim conditions of natural bodies of water (freezing temps, strong currents, rip tides)
There is no substitute for water safety.
We should all be aware that even strong swimmers, regardless of age, should be monitored when swimming as well.
