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Water Safety (Recreational)
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Safety Issues

Water Safety (Recreational)

Recreational water activities like swimming, boating, and diving can be dangerous, but following key safety precautions can help prevent injuries and drowning.

Staying Safe in the Water

While water activities are enjoyable, they require vigilance, particularly regarding the safety of children. To ensure a safe experience, please observe the following guidelines:

  • Avoid alcohol when swimming or boating.
  • Wear a life jacket whenever you are in a boat.
  • Do not swim alone or during bad weather.
  • Learn CPR.
  • Learn to swim and ensure your children learn to swim.
  • Supervise your children at all times when they are in the water.
  • Prevent sunburns by using plenty of sunscreen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Look for quiet, still behavior, head low in the water, eyes glassy or unfocused, lack of movement, and an inability to call for help. Even if the child appears “just playing,” a sudden loss of buoyancy, clinging to the edge, or gasping for air are red flags that require immediate rescue and emergency care.
Yes, you can swim after sunscreen is fully absorbed (usually 15‑20 minutes). Apply sunscreen before getting into the water, let it dry, and reapply every two hours or after heavy sweating or toweling. Using water‑resistant (but not waterproof) sunscreen helps maintain protection without compromising buoyancy or skin health.
Stop moving the person immediately and call emergency services. Keep the head, neck, and back aligned—support the head with your hands and avoid twisting. If the person is in the water, gently bring them to the shore while maintaining alignment, then keep them still until professional help arrives.
Choose a U.S. Coast Guard‑approved, “Type I” or “Type II” personal flotation device that fits snugly around the child’s chest and hips, with a crotch strap to keep it from riding up. The jacket should keep the child’s head above water even if they are unconscious; test it by placing the child in water—if they float face‑up without effort, the fit is correct.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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