Keep kids safe at the pool, beach

Safety experts recommend these ways to improve water safety:

With children under 5, practice "touch supervision," by being within arm's length at all times.

Actively supervise children, even if lifeguards are present.

Don't trust a child's well-being to another child.

Check the water first if a child is missing.

Give children and caregivers swimming lessons.

Make sure caregivers know CPR and water rescue techniques.

Around the pool, not just the yard, install fencing at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates.

Have rescue equipment -- life rings, shepherd's hooks, life jackets -- close at hand and know how to use them.

Keep inflatable pools empty and turned upside down when not in use.

Swim only in areas designated for swimming where a lifeguard is on duty.

See the Safe Kids USA water watcher card at safekids.org/assets/docs/safety-basics/safety-tips-by-risk-area/water-watcher-card-1.pdf

Download the brochure from Long Island Drowning Prevention Task Force at nextgenadv.com/lidptf/lidptf.pdf

Sources: Nassau County Police, Safe Kids USA, Long Island Drowning Prevention Task Force, American Red Cross