While nothing can trump close parental supervision, the colour of a child’s swimsuit, rash top or Personal Flotation Device (PFD) can make a big difference to their visibility in water.
As the weather heats up and families head to the pool and beaches to cool off, considering the colour of a child’s costume may have never crossed your mind, but when it comes to preventing childhood drowning, it can play a critical role.
In a recent test study, a Californian-based company that specialises in aquatic safety put swimsuit colours to the test to see their visibility in both pools and open water.
The verdict…
Avoid white or light blue swimmers as a child will virtually disappear under water. Instead, stick to bright neons where possible, particularly neon pink and neon orange. This summer choose bright over design to maintain the highest level of water safe visibility. And remember, the benefits of regular swimming lessons and constant adult supervision when children are in and near the water should never be underestimated.
