Water Park Safety Guide with Ride Safety Tips

Water parks have long held their place in families' hearts. They’re a simple way to have a good time even when people of several ages and interests are included. Popular attractions, such as slides, lily pads, and lazy rivers, promise endless entertainment, ensuring families return for more aquatic adventures every summer.

However, it's crucial to remember that while your goal is fun and relaxation, water park safety guidelines like those provided by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the Red Cross, and the American Academy of Pediatrics should be at the forefront of your mind during your outing. Whether you are a recurrent or new visitor, reviewing and being familiar with the rules of the water park and rides helps prevent accidents.

General Safety Tips for Families at Water Parks

The crowds and vast territory of the park can be overwhelming for both parents and kids. Don’t let this feeling take you away from a fun experience. Below are some helpful water park safety tips from the Red Cross and other reputable sources to help ensure the safety of your entire family during your next exciting visit.

Follow the Rules

Your kids need to understand that the rules at the water park are in place to maximize their safety. It’s important to follow the park's established rules and review the water park safety tips we have provided for your family so you can have a memorable and fun experience. Remember, sharing conversations with your children about safety before heading to a water park is crucial and increases the odds of a fun and positive experience for everyone.

Reiterate these rules to your children on the way to the park, so you can have their full attention. Once you arrive, remind your children that listening to you and the lifeguards is also very important to avoid any possible accidents.

Choose the Right Swimwear

Well-fitting swimwear is important for comfort and safety, but it’s also important to consider the color of your gear, according to testing by Alive Solutions. Bright, neon colors are easiest to spot for maximum visibility. It’s also important to remember what swimsuit or outfit your children are wearing so that they might stand out in a crowd to your eye.

Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Family

The level of independence may vary depending on your kids' ages, but regardless, you should always know where they are and what they’re doing. This is especially important when your children are in a wave pool, water slide, or near another water attraction. Bring more than one adult and rotate the duty of “water watcher.”

Buddy System

Every child should have a buddy, especially at large water parks where kids may wander. The buddy system not only helps keep them safe, but it also teaches shared responsibility at an early age.

Always Use Sunscreen

If you’re at an outdoor water park, you must ensure your kids have sunscreen applied early and often. Waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is extremely important for preventing painful burns and skin diseases from high exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays. And don’t forget to reapply it a few times throughout the day! Sunscreen should be applied at least 15-30 minutes before entering the water and needs to be reapplied every two hours.

Protective Shoes and Clothing

Water shoes and swimming shirts (rash guards) are always a good idea. They can protect your child from sunburn, scratches, and cuts at the park. Take into account that water shoes may not be allowed on certain attractions.

Stay Clean and Sanitary

Young children should avoid swallowing pool water or going to the bathroom in the pool. Take your children to the restroom before swimming, and always be sure they wash their hands appropriately. If your child wears diapers, waterproof diapers are always recommended, and check these often as well.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water during the day is one of the most vital health tips to mention. The sun can quickly dehydrate you. Checking that your child drinks plenty of water throughout your stay is crucial to a happy and healthy day at the water park.

Ensure Young Children Remain in Shallow Areas

Ensuring your child can swim and is confident in the water makes for a safe visit to the water park. But even if they are just learning or becoming accustomed to the water, you can still make sure a ton of fun is experienced during your visit.

Until they've learned to swim, it's paramount for young children to stay in easy-to-reach areas, always under close adult supervision. While lifeguards are typically present, you bear the ultimate responsibility for their safety.

Specific Safety Tips for Popular Water Park Rides

It’s always a good idea to review the types of rides and equipment available in your chosen water park. In particular, if you are looking for the best experience in a special needs-friendly water park, you may want to explore whether the venue is inclusive and accessible.

Before your actual visit, take time for you and your children to review what the rides will be like, as well as the rules and safety tips.

Water Slides

Don’t run. Always use the handrails and use caution on stairs and ramps.
Listen to the lifeguard or ride operator's instructions about water slide safety and wait for their signal before entering the slide.
Always sit or lie down in the correct position (usually feet first) to avoid injuries.

Wave Pools

Start in the shallow end to acclimate to the water and its movement patterns. This is especially important for younger or less experienced swimmers.
Remember that water depth changes when the waves are active.
Surf Escape recommends buckling up a life jacket for wave pool safety if your child is not a strong swimmer.
Avoid roughhousing both in and around the water.

Lazy Rivers

Stay seated on the tube at all times to prevent slipping into the water unexpectedly.
Stay aware of your surroundings and other riders. Watch out for bottlenecks or faster currents, sometimes occurring in turns.
If your child isn’t a strong swimmer, don’t depend on the raft or tube for security. For the best safety measures, use a lifejacket.

Children’s Play Areas (Splash Zones)

As Cincinnati Children’s Hospital reminds us, splash pad safety begins with closely monitoring younger kids, especially around dumping buckets or sprays that may startle them.
Avoid overcrowded areas where collisions with other kids are more likely.
Use swim shoes and remind children to walk to avoid slips and falls.
Reinforce the Association of American Pediatrics’ advice that the water in any attraction, including the splash zone, isn’t safe to drink.
Remember to use a swim diaper and cover as needed.

Bumper Boats

Be sure to use any safety restraints that are provided.
Remind your child that they must stay seated and in the boat the entire time.
Stay aware and respectful of other riders.

Surfrider (Surf Simulator)

Be sure you understand what to expect from these specialized rides. You can review how they work at manufacturer sites like FlowRider and professional instruction videos before you visit.
Listen carefully to the instructions and cues from the lifeguard.
Stay focused and aware of your surroundings.
Use protective gear as needed.
Don’t try to show off or exceed your skill level.
Practice needed movements, entry and exit, and balance techniques outside the surf simulator.

Preparing for a Safe and Fun Day at the Water Park

The list of things to bring and do can seem long, but preparation allows you and your child to relax and enjoy the experience. Let’s break things down to a simple water park safety checklist for a fun day at the water park.

Before You Go

Research the water park’s rules and safety guidelines.
Ensure your child is comfortable in the water or enroll them in swimming lessons if needed.
Apply water-resistant sunscreen (minimum SPF 30).

What to Bring

Quick-dry swimsuits and water shoes for slippery surfaces.
Swim diapers and covers as needed.
Towels and an extra change of clothes.
Waterproof sunscreen.
A small first-aid kit for minor scrapes or cuts.
Waterproof phone pouch or bag for valuables.
A lock if storage cubbies are available.
Snacks that meet the park’s food policy or plan for on-site purchases.
Plenty of water or reusable water bottles for hydration.
Rash guards or hats for additional sun protection.
Pack properly fitting life jackets for younger kids or non-swimmers.

At the Water Park

Establish a buddy system as needed to help keep tabs on everyone.
Establish a family meeting point in case someone gets separated.
Review ride rules with your kids, emphasizing proper posture and safety measures.
Monitor your children at all times, even in shallow play areas.
Encourage breaks and hydration in shaded areas to avoid overheating.
Set an alarm to remind you to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming.

After the Trip

Launder your suits and other items immediately or set them out to dry to avoid harmful molding and smells.
Check for any signs of sunburn or dehydration and address them immediately.
Wash off the rest of the sunscreen, chlorine, or salt water with a full bath or shower at home.
Review the highlights of the trip and reflect on safety tips with your kids for the next visit.

Big Blue Swim School Can Help

At Big Blue Swim School, we emphasize and teach the importance of fun and safety in the water. To get your kids ready for their next aquatic adventure by enrolling them in swim lessons, find a Big Blue location near you.

Discover the best option for swim lessons for your child with Big Blue—book a free trial today!