Here in the sunny state of Florida, we’re surrounded by some of the best water parks in the world. For Watermelon Swim families, we even have Adventure Island right in our backyard! Thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools- what could be better?
As fun as water parks are, it’s important to walk through the gates with safety top of mind. Just like at the beach or backyard pool, a little preparation goes a long way
To help you stay safer this summer, Watermelon Swim has gathered some tips to help every family have a fun-filled, low-stress day at the water park.
Lifeguards are just one layer of safety, not the only layer
Lifeguards are an important part of water park safety, but in a crowded, fast-moving environment, they simply can’t watch every person at once. That’s why parental supervision is just as critical here as it is at any other body of water.
Designate one adult as the water watcher, someone who stays focused with eyes on the swimmers at all times. For beginners, that means staying within arm’s reach too. It’s the same practice we recommend at home pools and the beach, and it applies just as much at a water park.
That extra layer of attention goes a long way toward keeping everyone safe and letting your family enjoy the day as you move throughout the park.
Follow Height, Weight, and Age Guidelines for Attractions
Many slides create a strong current where they meet the pool; some wave pools can be intense even for adults, and many water attractions are only safe for a specific weight range. Certain experiences at the park just aren’t designed for everybody, and that’s okay.
Most rides and slides will have a sign that explains who exactly is allowed to participate. As disappointing as these rules can be, they are there for you and your family’s safety. Ignoring them will only increase the risk of an emergency.
Thankfully, most water parks have a designated area for tiny adventurers. These parts of the park have smaller slides, splash pads, and interactive elements that will keep younger children entertained for hours.
Use Coast Guard-Approved Life Vests
If your child is still learning how to swim or isn’t the strongest swimmer just yet, it’s essential to wear a life vest at the water park. This extra layer of safety reduces the risk of drowning, provided they are Coast Guard-approved, properly fitted, and brightly colored.
Don’t have your own? Not a problem. Most water parks like Adventure Island, Aquatica Orlando, and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon all provide different-sized life jackets for visitors to use for the day.
Keep in mind that arm floaties and water wings are not life-saving devices and should never be used in place of a life jacket. In fact, many water parks ban these toys from being used in the park.
Enroll in Swim Lessons at Watermelon Swim!
The best way to support water safety for children aged 1-4 is to enroll in consistent and continuous swim lessons. This decreases the risk of drowning for young children by 88%.
Lessons can give both a child and their parents confidence as they participate in fun water activities throughout the year, including water parks! In a state like Florida where water dictates many weekend and summer plans, swim lessons aren’t just an activity; they’re a necessity.
Ready to get your little melon signed up at Watermelon Swim? Call 813.229.7946 to talk with a member of Team Melon about our Learn to Swim Program and to start enrollment!
