What to look for when shopping for safe floatation devices for young kids

Whether it's your backyard pool or the beach, water safety matters. Our resident pediatrician talks about what every adult should know before the kids dive in.

With the hot temperatures here and beach season officially beginning this weekend, water safety is top of mind for many parents.

Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, the medical officer of health for the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, says the number one rule of swimming safety is to never leave young children unattended.

“All the kids we have seen who have drowned or near drowned were found in the pool because nobody knew where they were,” he told CTV Morning Live.

Dr. Roumeliotis says children can drown in just six inches of water and it can happen quickly.

More than 400 Canadians drown each year, on average, according to the Lifesaving Society.

“Be water aware. It’s great to swim, but don’t let tragedy set in,” Roumeliotis says.

“The number one thing is always keep an eye on your kids and, when you’re swimming, always be an arm’s length away.”

Pool floaties

There are many products for sale that can be used to float in water, but they’re not all created equal.

Pool noodles, water wings, and other water toys might seem safe, but Roumeliotis says to always ensure you have a properly fitting, approved lifejacket for kids who cannot swim on their own.

“It has to be appropriately fitting. If it’s too big, it will just go off with the water. If it’s too small, it won’t do its job,” Roumeliotis says. “It’s very important that you wear a well-fitted vest, but don’t over-rely on these things. These are excellent to have, but always, when you have younger children and you’re in the water with them, be within arm’s length.”

Transport Canada says personal floatation devices should fit snugly and not ride up over your child’s chin or ears. There should be less than 7.6 cm (3”) between your child’s shoulders and the device. Otherwise, the device is too big and could do more harm than good.

Look for a lifejacket or personal floatation device with a label that says the device has been approved by Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard or Fisheries and Oceans Canada when shopping. Some items may look like lifejackets but aren’t actually approved for such use. Check labels, including on the inside of water vests to make sure you have a proper device.