Summer Pool Tips

Summer is here! We are approaching the end of another school year and the beginning of the summer season. Here in Houston , as opposed to Florida where we lived for 9 years, the pool is closed throughout the school year. This weekend, it reopens in our Cypress Subdivision, Sydney Harbour. My children just could not wait to dive in and safety is always a top priority.
I prepare myself for the season by purchasing high SPF sunscreens; I want to make sure we enjoy our daily outdoor activities by preventing sunburn. I use SPF 70 for the face and SPF40 or 55 for the rest of the skin. It is important to ensure these sunscreens are easy to apply and waterproof. Many times children are not too patient to allow the lotion to penetrate the skin before getting in the water.
In addition, I pack cold drinks and fruits or light snacks. It is essential to be hydrated while exposed to the sun, bodies tend to sweat in excess and if we are inside a pool we might not notice that we are dehydrated. Of course, provide that you know how to swim; otherwise, you'll be drinking plenty of pool water.
Moreover, enrolling children in swimming lesson at about 4 to 5 years old is a common practice. There are programs for babies too, such as http://www.babyswimming.com/benefits.htm which can become a family adventure. Likewise, there are many floating devices to choose from, arm floats, vests, float suits, etc. These simple tips and common sense will make this summer season a memorable experience for the family. Make sure that there is a lifeguard on duty at your local pool or if in a private pool ensure someone knows how to perform CPR.
For more tips on pool safety check the Red Cross website at http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/tips/healthtips/safetywater.html