Row, Row, Row, Your Boat!
This summer my husband and I took Andi kayaking for the first time. We started on a lake and recently had our first adventure on the river! Andi did not love the first voyage (she especially disliked her life jacket), but after a few more trips and time to get used to the life jacket, Andi loved it! We pack a favorite snack, sing songs, and spy cute animals along the way. Boating is a great way to spend the 4th of July with your family. Think safety first and plan a water adventure of your own!
Boating Safety Tips
- According to the U.S. Coast Guard, babies should not travel on boats (including rowboats, kayaks, and motorboats) until they are the appropriate weight to wear a life jacket.
- Children should ALWAYS wear life jackets approved by the U.S. Coast Guard while on boats or near open bodies of water.
- Water toys are fun, but do not rely on them for safety!
- Develop and enforce basic boat rules and make sure everyone follows them.
- Young kids are at higher risk for hypothermia, so make sure to take extra precautions to keep them warm. If your child is shivering, wrap him/her in a blanket or towel.
- Teach children the difference between open water and the swimming pool. Make sure they are aware of uneven surfaces, river currents and the unpredictability of rivers, lakes and oceans.
Resource: safekids.org
Check out life jacket safety tips at: http://www.todaysparent.com/kids/8-life-jacket-tips-that-can-save-your-childs-life/
Note: This resources provides great information from the Canadian Pediatric Society and Canadian Safety Regulations – you can also refer to the American Red Cross or the U.S. Coast Guard for more information.
Andi kayaking with her Dad on Lake Meyer
