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by Harvard Health Publishing.
Your guide to water safety
Headed to the beach, a pool, or a lake with your baby? Don't forget the sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a sunshade. Another important thing to bring: some basic water safety knowledge.
Enjoy the water safely
All backyard pools should have a secure fence. Store pool toys away from the pool so your baby isn't tempted by them.
Start swim lessons as early as possible to help your baby stay safe in the water.
Water safety is also important right in your home – including in the bathtub. Never leave a baby alone in the tub. Babies can drown in just a few inches of water. For the same reason, never leave a baby alone near any pool, lake, creek, or other body of water.
All this is important because drowning is the most common cause of accidental death in children ages 1 to 4, according to the CDC. Since your baby is so young, he won't be out of your sight right now, or in the water alone. But as soon as he starts to crawl or walk, you'll need to be extra careful around the water.
Wear a life jacket
If you're headed out on any kind of boat, make sure your baby has a life jacket approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. (The seal of approval will be printed on the jacket.) The Coast Guard recommends that all infants wear Type II life jackets, which have an extra cushion around the head to make sure the baby floats face-up. Check that the life jacket is marked for infant use and that it fits snugly.
You are the most important safety factor for your child. Pay attention to your baby at all times when you're near the water. Make sure he or she is with you at all times and never plays near the water without you. This will make your trip to the lake or the beach more enjoyable.
Swim Lessons
If you are a Sunshine Health Medicaid member, swimming lessons are available as an expanded benefit under your plan, although space is limited. Your Medicaid coverage now lasts a full year after you give birth. Call Member Services at 1-866-796-0530 for more information.