Enjoy a Safe Summer Around the Water
Summer and swimming go hand in hand. Whether you're cooling off at a public pool, relaxing at the lake, or spending the day at the beach, water activities are a favorite summertime tradition.
While swimming is a great way to stay active and have fun, water safety should always be a priority. Following a few simple precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe summer for everyone.
Essential Swimming Safety Tips
Learn How to Swim
Swimming lessons can significantly reduce the risk of drowning and help swimmers build confidence in the water. People of all ages can benefit from learning basic swimming and water safety skills.
Wear a life jacket in Open Water
Inexperienced swimmers should always wear a properly fitted life jacket, especially when swimming in lakes, rivers, and other open-water environments.
Don't Rely on Pool Toys for Safety
Inflatable arm bands, pool noodles, rafts, and other floating toys are not life-saving devices. Always use approved personal flotation devices when appropriate.
Keep Young Children Within Arm's Reach
Toddlers and young children should be actively supervised whenever they are near water. Avoid distractions such as reading, texting, scrolling on your phone, or engaging in other activities that take your attention away from supervising children.
Swim with a Buddy
Older children, teens, and adults should never swim alone. Always swim with a buddy who can assist or seek help during an emergency.
Check Water Conditions Before Entering
Before entering the water, assess the swimming area for:
- Water depth
- Underwater hazards
- Rocks, debris, or other obstacles
- Currents or changing conditions
When entering unfamiliar water, jump feet first instead of diving.
Follow Local Water Safety and Boating Laws
Be aware of local regulations regarding swimming, boating, and personal watercraft operation.
Nebraska Boating Safety Laws
Nebraska law includes several important safety requirements for boaters and passengers.
Life Jacket Requirements
In Nebraska:
- Children under 13 years old must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while aboard a vessel.
- Anyone operating or riding on a personal watercraft (jet ski) must wear a life jacket.
- Individuals being towed behind a boat on skis, tubes, wakeboards, or similar devices must wear a life jacket.
- Every vessel, except sailboards, must carry a flotation device for each person on board.
Boater Education Requirements
To legally operate a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska:
- Operators born after December 31, 1985, must meet boating education requirements.
- Operators must be at least 14 years old.
Boating Under the Influence (BUI)
Operating a motorboat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered Boating Under the Influence (BUI) in Nebraska.
Penalties may include:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Up to six months in jail
- Suspension of boating privileges for six months
Drowning Prevention Resources
Drowning is preventable, and education and age requirements play an important role in keeping families safe around water.
American Academy of Pediatrics Drowning Prevention Toolkit offers a comprehensive Drowning Prevention Toolkit that includes water safety information for:
- Home swimming pools
- Bathtubs
- Lakes and rivers
- Beaches and open water
These free resources can help parents, caregivers, educators, and community organizations promote safe swimming practices throughout the summer.
Make Water Safety Part of Your Summer Plans
Whether you're visiting a neighborhood pool, spending a day on the lake, or enjoying a family beach vacation, taking proper safety precautions can help prevent injuries and save lives.
Stay alert, wear life jackets when appropriate, supervise children closely, and make water safety a priority all summer long.
