Stay Safe This Summer

As temperatures rise and summer kicks into full swing, families across San Joaquin County head outdoors to enjoy poolside fun and boating adventures on the Delta. But with the joys of water come real risks, especially for kids and inexperienced swimmers.

Whether you’re enjoying a backyard pool or spending the day on the water, following a few key safety tips can help ensure everyone has fun and stays safe.

Pool Safety at Home

Backyard pools are a popular summer escape, but they also pose a major risk for young children. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for kids under 5.

Here’s how to make your pool area safer:

• Never leave children unattended, even for a moment. Always assign a responsible adult as a designated “water watcher.”
• Install proper fencing—at least 4 feet tall with self-latching gates to prevent unsupervised access.
• Use pool alarms or covers as extra layers of protection when the pool isn’t in use.
• Keep rescue equipment and a phone nearby for emergencies.
• Teach kids how to swim early and reinforce pool rules: no running, no diving in shallow water, and always swim with an adult.

Boating Safety on the Delta

The Delta’s winding waterways are perfect for summer boating, tubing, and wakeboarding. But strong currents, submerged hazards, and high traffic can make it dangerous without the right precautions.

Before heading out on the water:

• Wear a life jacket—no exceptions. California law requires kids under 13 to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on boats under 26 feet.
• Check your equipment. Make sure your boat is in good condition, with all required safety gear onboard (life jackets, throwable flotation device, fire extinguisher, distress signals).
• Avoid alcohol while operating a boat. It impairs judgment just like driving a car.
• Watch for signs and markers. Stay alert for no-wake zones, shallow areas, and other boaters.
• Know the local tides and currents. The Delta is known for changing conditions that can challenge even experienced boaters.

Quick Tips for All Water Activities

• Enroll in CPR and first aid training so you’re prepared in an emergency.
• Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to prevent heat exhaustion.
• Set clear rules and boundaries before any water activity begins.
• Teach children how to respond if they fall into water unexpectedly, like floating on their back and calling for help.

Make Safety Part of the Fun

Summer is meant to be fun, but safety should always come first. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or cruising through the Delta, a little extra awareness goes a long way in preventing accidents and keeping everyone smiling.

Let this be a season of laughter, adventure, and, most importantly, safe summer memories.