Vacation Water Safety Checklist: Tips for a Safer, Stress-Free Getaway

Vacations are all about relaxation, fun, and making memories with your loved ones. But when your getaway includes water—whether it’s a hotel pool, a cozy backyard spa, or the ocean waves—safety needs to be part of the plan. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for kids, and it can happen fast and silently, especially in new places.

Before you pack your bags, use this water safety checklist. It will help keep your family safe in and around water. This way, you can focus on what really matters: having fun and making memories.

Before You Book

It’s easy to get swept up in vacation photos of sparkling pools and tropical beaches. But safety needs to be part of the booking checklist.

• Ask about barriers. Are there fences, self-latching gates, or door alarms around water features?
• Inquire about lifeguards. Will there be trained professionals onsite or nearby?
• Know the emergency plan. Hotels and vacation rentals should have a posted emergency response protocol.
• Understand local laws. Life jacket rules, beach flag systems, and boating ordinances vary by region.

Pack for Protection

A few safety-focused items can go a long way on your trip.

• Brightly colored swimsuits for visibility
• USCG-approved life jackets (no arm floaties!)
• Portable door or pool alarms for added security
• CPR mask and basic First Aid kit

When You Arrive

Take a moment to survey your surroundings and ensure all safety measures are in place before anyone goes near the water.

• Identify all water features, including hidden or non-obvious ones.
• Check if gates and pool barriers are working properly.
• Find and review posted safety rules and emergency information.
• Ask where you can find the rescue equipment and first aid supplies.
• Cover the pool or spa when you are not using it—especially critical during non-swim times. 

Taking these simple safety steps ensures your family can relax and make memories without worry. Download the full vacation water safety checklist from our partners at the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) and make sure you're fully prepared for whatever water adventures come your way.

Safer Vacations Start with Swim Lessons

Enroll in swim lessons now and give your kids the skills they need to stay safer in and around water—on vacation and all year long.

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