Debunking 5 Common Water Safety Myths

1. Myth: "Floaties or water wings keep kids safe."

Truth:  Floaties can give a false sense of security. They can slip off, deflate, or tip children forward. Only Transport Canada U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets are considered reliable flotation devices.

2. Myth: "Only deep water is dangerous."

Truth:  Drowning can occur in as little as 1 inch of water — bathtubs, buckets, even puddles pose a risk, especially for infants and toddlers. Shallow water does not mean it's safe without supervision.

3. Myth: "You can always hear someone drowning."

Truth:  Drowning is usually silent. Victims rarely splash or call for help. It often happens in under 30 seconds with little to no noise, especially in children. Always maintain close by when your children are near water, no matter how shallow.

4. Myth: "Adults don’t drown — it’s mostly kids."

Truth:  While children are at higher risk, thousands of adults drown each year — often due to alcohol, overestimating swimming abilities, or not wearing life jackets while boating or fishing.

5. Myth: "If there’s no lifeguard, I’ll be fine watching the kids from the shore."

Truth:  Drowning can occur in seconds, and distractions (phones, conversations, etc.) can delay response. Active supervision means being within arm’s reach and fully focused — not just nearby.