Swimming Carnival Safety – the Power of Practice

School Swimming Carnival season is here. This carnival season, be sure to know your child's limits and swimming ability and remember that practice really does make perfect. Read on for our top carnival safety tips. 

Make the most of your summer by squeezing in some additional swimming practice outside of your child’s swimming lessons, or in addition to your casual swimming habits. Any extra time is a bonus opportunity to help sustain your child’s skills and practice for carnival season, whereas time away from swimming can result in reduced skills, performance and importantly, confidence. 
 
Swimming carnivals are a true team effort between lifeguards, school teachers, volunteers, parents, venue staff and students, who each play a part in ensuring a fun day for all. Be sure to follow our top tips below for a safe and fun swimming carnival season. 

Top tips for staying safe at a swimming carnival: 

• Remind your child to only sign up for events or races they are capable of, confident with, and have adequately practiced prior to the carnival. 
• Be sure to let the teachers know if your child is not a strong swimmer. Remember to swim within your capabilities. 
• If you are spectating, keep a watch out for others. Help your child’s classmates make the right choices for events within their abilities. 
• Remind your child if they experience difficulty in the water, raise a hand to gain a lifeguard’s attention. 
• Be calm and patient during carnivals - the safety of everyone is paramount. 
• Remind your child to read and obey the safety signs and teacher/lifeguard instructions. 
• Remember to be sun-safe, too! Use appropriate sun protection such as a protective hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sun-shirts, and also seek shade where you can. 

Remember, water safety is vital for an enjoyable summer and carnival season, so be sure to do a mental check of our top tips and remind your children to do the same in the lead up to carnival events.