When going to the beach with the family, it’s important to keep in mind that young children under 4 years of age should be kept in arm’s reach while near water. Small children may run into the water very suddenly. Older children who go in the water by themselves should have supervision as accidents happen suddenly and unexpectedly.
Although inflatable swimming aids may seem useful and fun, they can actually be quite dangerous. They may carry the child away from the shore and deflate unexpectedly. Also children may put themselves into jeopardy when retrieving an object that has floated into deep water. A swimming ring may make children overestimate their actual swimming skill or flip accidentally in the water, leaving the child trapped under water.