As temperatures rise and families flock to pools, lakes, and rivers across Comal County, summer becomes the perfect season to enjoy the water—and an important time to focus on water safety for kids.

Swimming is fun and healthy, but it’s also essential to take precautions to help prevent accidents. Below are five key tips to help keep your children safe around water:

1. Active Supervision Saves Lives

Always have a responsible adult actively watching children in or near water.

“Active” means putting down the phone and avoiding distractions. Drowning can happen in seconds—and often without a sound.

2. Start Swimming Lessons Early

Enroll children in age-appropriate swim classes as early as possible.

Basic skills like floating, treading water, and safe entry/exit techniques can be lifesaving. Local community centers and swim programs in New Braunfels offer excellent instruction for all ages.

3. Use Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets

When around open water (like the Guadalupe River or Canyon Lake), make sure children wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets—especially if they are not strong swimmers.

Pool noodles and inflatable toys are not considered safety devices and should never replace proper flotation gear.

4. Set and Enforce Pool Rules

Establish simple, consistent pool rules:

No running near the pool

No diving in shallow water

Always swim with a buddy

Repetition and consistency help children understand and respect safety boundaries.

5. Know CPR—It Can Save a Life

In an emergency, every second counts. Knowing CPR can make a critical difference while waiting for emergency services.

CPR courses are available locally, and Lonestar 24 HR ER proudly offers training options here in New Braunfels. Contact us for more information.

Stay Prepared, Stay Aware, and Enjoy the Summer Safely

With a little preparation and attentiveness, swimming can be a safe and memorable part of your child’s summer.

If you have any questions or concerns, the board-certified ER physicians at Lonestar 24 HR ER are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to care for you and your loved ones—right here in New Braunfels.