Do water wings fly? devise a sensible flotation-device policy for your facility. (Risk Management).(Brief Article)

Flotation devices have long been used by swim instructors as learn-to-swim aids and by parents seeking an additional layer of protection for their young children. These devices -- kickboards, float belts, water wings, "swimmies," rafts, noodles, inner tubes and so on -- can help kids experience freedom and mobility under the watchful eye of a qualified Instructor, and help nonswimmers overcome a fear of water.

During public swim time, however, these same flotation devices present obstacles for lifeguards and dangers for children. While many facilities prohibit the use of flotation devices, a reasonable, tailored flotation-device policy that balances risks against benefits and guest enjoyment is the best line of defense against crying 3-year-aids and their angry parents.

Reduced supervision

Why do so many facilities completely ban flotation devices? Most likely, such bans are designed to enhance safety by ensuring that guards have dear sight lines and by encouraging dose parental supervision of children in the water.

For guards, inflatable devices present significant surveillance challenges. Swimmers can easily become hidden from a guard's view in a sea of floating inner tubes. While many waterparks manage these risks by providing additional guard stations at wave pools and other attractions, increasing staff would be burdensome for most aquatics facilities.

Patrons young and old, however, love tubes and rafts. But many parents of young children let their supervision slip because they believe their children are safe when wearing flotation devices. These devices can also provide a child with a false sense of security; nonswimmers can become overconfident and venture into deep water.

Even manufacturers recognize the importance of parental supervision. Typical warnings printed on flotation devices inform parents of the need to supervise children in the water, and the warnings dearly state that flotation aids should not be used as lifesaving devices. Despite these warnings, many parents admit they don't watch their children as closely when their children wear "swimmies."