May is National Water Safety Month—and if you live in Oregon, chances are you’ll be near water sometime soon. From splashing in the Willamette, to jumping waves on the coast, to chasing your kids through the spray at a local splash pad, water is a big part of how we enjoy the outdoors around here.
But before you pack the sunscreen and head out the door, let’s talk about safety. Because whether it’s a river float, a backyard kiddie pool, or a day at Blue Lake, water play can quickly turn dangerous if we’re not careful. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can go a long way in keeping everyone safe—and smiling.
1. Supervision Means More Than Just “I’m Nearby”
Whether you’re at the lake, on a boat, or even at a splash pad, kids need active supervision. Drowning can happen in silence, and in as little as 30 seconds. That means no phone scrolling, no zoning out, and no assuming “someone else is watching.”
Pro Tip: Designate a “Water Watcher” and take shifts. It’s not just smart—it might even earn you a quiet minute with your iced coffee later.
2. Know the Water Before You Dive In
Natural water sources can be deceiving. What looks calm on the surface might have strong currents, sudden drop-offs, or hidden rocks. Even a favorite swimming hole can change with the season.
Pro Tip: Take a quick walk around the area before anyone gets in. If you’re at a river or lake, wade in slowly to test the footing and temperature. Cold water shock is real—even on a hot day.
3. Life Jackets > Pool Noodles
No matter how shallow the water or confident the swimmer, properly fitted life jackets save lives. That goes double for river floats, paddle boarding, and boat rides.
Pro Tip: Inflatable floaties and foam noodles are for fun—not safety. Look for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets and encourage your child to pick one they love (bonus points for cool designs).
Need one for the day? Many local parks and marinas have life jacket loaner stations—free to use and easy to find. Check out a map of locations here.
4. Splash Pads Are Awesome—But Still Supervise
They may seem safer than lakes or pools (and they usually are), but that doesn’t mean you can completely relax. Kids can slip, wander off, or get overwhelmed.
Pro Tip: Set up a shaded “home base” nearby and stay close. And remember: when concrete meets water meets a toddler sprinting in Crocs—chaos is just a giggle away.
5. Learn CPR. Seriously.
In an emergency, those first few minutes matter more than anything. Knowing CPR—especially for children and infants—can make all the difference.
Pro Tip: Many fire departments, hospitals, and YMCAs offer low-cost CPR training. Some classes are even available online, so there’s no excuse not to be ready.
Bonus: Lifeguards Are Heroes, Not Babysitters
If you’re at a pool or staffed water area, lifeguards are your backup—not your primary plan. They’re watching everyone, not just your kid. Respect the rules, thank them often, and model good behavior for the little ones.
Let’s Keep Water Fun, Not Frantic
We wait a long time for summer up here—and we’ve earned it. So let’s make the most of it while staying smart. Whether you’re cooling off at the splash pad, paddling a lake, or chasing your kids through the backyard sprinkler, remember: the best summer memories start with laughter, and end with a dry towel and a well-earned nap.
Stay safe. Stay cool. And maybe pack extra snacks—just in case your toddler decides to do cannonballs for three hours straight.
Tiffany Wilson is a 42-year-old stay-at-home mom from Tigard, Oregon, raising three kids—Sophie, Noah, and Riley. She’s a warm, hands-on parent who mixes daily routines with creative fun, whether it’s a backyard scavenger hunt or building a blanket fort in the living room.