Before diving into the fun, you need to help protect your children by knowing proper water park safety. This summer, as things warm up, thousands will flock to nearby beaches, public pools and water park facilities. A facility that shares a public water supply can pose potential safety problems.
Chlorine
Chlorine levels tend to vary throughout the day, so you want to be sure the park monitors them closely. Too little chlorine in the water invites unwanted bacteria, while too much can lead to skin irritation. If the park you choose does not post chlorine levels, ask the manager to see them.
Cryptosporidium
This microscopic parasite, excreted in the feces of infected humans, is highly resistant to the levels of chlorine in pools. One becomes infected after swallowing contaminated water. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and vomiting. This parasite has recently caused numerous outbreaks in swimming pools and water parks. To help prevent the infection, be sure the park requires that all diapered children wear leakproof plastic swim diapers and that diapers are changed only in designated areas away from the pool. Also teach your child never to swallow from any body of water; offer lots of bathroom breaks and don't use a pool if you or your child has had diarrhea within the last two weeks.
Water safety
Since water attractions are not always well-supervised, you must be vigilant about watching your child, regardless of how many lifeguards or employees are present, what skills your child has or how shallow the water is.
Originally published in Child Magazine, August, 2000.
 | Those child safety measures that worked for your baby and toddler need to be adapted as your child grows. Older kids are motivated and willing to take risks to explore, so you need to keep hazardous items locked away and set down firm rules to prevent accidents. |
 | Before you let your kids run amok on your backyard playground, you need to make sure the backyard is a safe and appropriate place to play. So get out outside before your kids do, and go through this safety checklist. |
 | Check out these baby safety products for your baby's safety. By taking a few safety precautions, you can help prevent accidents and guarantee a safe environment. |
As the summer months approach, many families across the country will be heading to one of several amusement theme parks for a day fun. Unfortunately, some amusement park trips have tragic ends. Incidents of riders falling from roller coasters are rare, but can occur. |
While sports offer benefits from physical fitness and coordination to learning the value of teamwork, they can also result in injuries. |
