Under 5’s

Water presents a potentially life threatening hazard for young children in and around the home and in the wider community a fact supported by statistics which show preschool children have one of the highest drowning rates of all New Zealanders.

However, given the right opportunities, and with encouragement, your child can become both confident and competent in the water.

Think about safety first!

Safety is of critical importance as children are introduced to water play and later when they learn to swim.

ALWAYS SUPERVISE CHILDREN NEAR WATER – ALWAYS!

Supervision without any distractions is the single most important precaution you can take. Children learn by exploring their environment, new adventures are only a few steps away.

Proper supervision in and around water requires a responsible adult keeping young children in their care both WITHIN SIGHT and WITHIN REACH.

Water safety at home and the surrounding environment

Almost half of all pre-school drownings occur in home pool. This is most frequently at the child's own home or when visiting a friend or relative.

Are you familiar with the law on fencing of home pools? Use this link to check your pool fencing does fully comply with the Act; you still have to remain alert.

Home swimming and spa pools are not the only hazard faced by preschoolers in a home environment.

Don’t let your guard down around any body of water. All aquatic environments are exciting, fun areas for children but they are all potentially dangerous.

Therefore:

Closely supervise children yourself – do not leave the task to any lifeguards who might be on duty.
Never let children swim alone.

Water Confidence

Introducing children to water in ‘fun’ ways, in the familiar surroundings of their own home should help children enjoy water safely throughout their lives and is a process that can start from birth.

Visit our Swim for Life section for information and tips on how you can start your child’s water confidence education.