The importance of hydration and pool safety at school

There are countless potential dangers associated with swimming, sun exposure and lack of hydration. A few pointers, for both parents and children, will ensure a safer experience for everyone.

With kids heading back to school, Blueguard, the trusted authority on water safety and first aid in the UAE, is committed to providing essential expertise and guidance for a secure and informed back-to-school transition.

Going back to school with a strong understanding of water safety and basic first aid is paramount, especially for schools and activities involving swimming and other water-based pursuits. In an effort to promote water safety, Blueguard offers a number of key water safety tips for parents and guardians.

Safety First

Here are some things to bear in mind as you send your child to swimming at school, or externally.

Lifeguard presence

Ensure that your child’s swim classes have dedicated lifeguards. In busier pools, consider the need for multiple lifeguards to keep an eye on all the little swimmers!

Adequate supervision

It’s important to be aware that swim coaches or P.E. staff are not substitutes for lifeguards. Blueguard recommends that all staff possess comprehensive water safety rescue skills and CPR training for added safety.

Staff qualifications

Verify that swim coaches or P.E. staff hold the necessary qualifications to effectively teach swimming. This step makes sure that there is a high standard of instruction and safety for all students involved.

Coach to student ratio

Check that the ratio of swim coaches to students is appropriate for safer supervision. There should always be enough coaches on hand to make sure that no child goes unnoticed.

Trust your instincts

We all have the gift of powerful instincts and we can tell when a situation doesn’t quite feel right. If something appears unsafe or feels concerning, don’t hesitate to ask questions to guarantee the safety of your children. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

September is still very warm, so it’s always good to consider these basic safety practices for your child as they head back to school.

Stay hydrated

Encourage children to drink water regularly throughout the day to maintain proper hydration, even when they’re not feeling thirsty. Consider getting your child a water bottle so they can keep track of their daily water intake.

Sun safety

Try to make certain that your children wear suitable protective clothing and apply sunscreen to shield themselves from the sun’s powerful rays.

Healthy drinks

Advise against the consumption of sugary beverages and energy drinks, as they can lead to dehydration. Instead, try out hydrating lunchbox snacks such as watermelon and cucumber.

Time wisely

Help children avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest midday hours when the sun’s intensity is strongest. Talk to your child about the importance of this during the school day.

Check urine colour

Teach children to observe the colour of their urine; pale-yellow to clear colour signals good hydration, while dark yellow or amber suggests dehydration.

Show your child how to recognise signs of thirst, dry mouth or dizziness, indicating their body’s need for fluids. With this knowledge, little ones are able to give themselves what they need, or ask a teacher for help, as soon as they need it.

We have the utmost responsibility to provide our children with a safe environment in which to play and learn. By following these simple steps, parents and educators can ensure the wellbeing and hydration of the children in their care.