Water Safety Concerns for Swimming in Johns Creek, GA
Whether your family is headed to Big Blue Swim School for lessons, Lake Lanier, or the Little River, your fun and adventures can be made all the better by understanding and preparing for the water safety concerns of swimming in Johns Creek, GA, with the help of resources like the American Red Cross. You can even access an interactive, kid-friendly site to help your child learn about water safety.
Public Pools, Water Parks, & Family Beaches: Crowded and High-Energy Environments
Popular spots for high-energy water fun are Haynes Landing Swimming Pool, Riverside Sprayground, and the beach at Red Top Mountain State Park at Lake Allatoona.
Each location has great things to recommend, but no matter where you might be headed, there are a few safety concerns that may come up.
Crowded Conditions
It goes without saying that the desire to get out and enjoy the day and cool off from the heat is a top choice for Johns Creek families. Always remember that crowded public pools and water parks carry risks for slips, collisions, and accidental drowning.
Fast-Moving Attractions
Not every attraction is geared toward universal enjoyment. Water parks can become overwhelming for smaller and less experienced swimmers as the water and participants move swiftly.
Splash Pad Safety
Splash Pads are an awesome choice for younger children. They are safer than pools of water, but they do have slippery surfaces and water features that may startle younger children. The youngest toddlers also risk injury if they explore the area without supervision.
Focus on Supervision
Even when there are lifeguards on duty, the biggest thing parents can do to keep their children safe is to provide close supervision. Be sure your children are easy to spot in and out of the water, and keep younger children within arms’ reach at all times.
Backyard & Apartment Complex Pools: Safety Risks at Home
If you’re staying closer to home in a backyard or an apartment complex pool, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) suggests having five layers of defense in place for every private pool, whether or not it's occupied.
Lack of Lifeguards
When you’re swimming in a private area, there is little to no professional supervision. Always designate a “water watcher” while children are in the area.
Gates & Fencing
There are laws in place regarding fencing and security for private pools in Georgia, but that doesn’t mean every homeowner understands these laws. Make sure your safety measures are up to date and enforced. Also, make sure your children understand not to enter any pool without proper supervision.
Slippery Surfaces
Just like public pool areas, decks and concrete can become slippery. Be sure to enforce a “no running or roughhousing” rule for all areas as a precaution against falls or injuries—explain the reason for this to your children so they understand why they need to be cautious.
Cold Water Shock
Even in the Georgia heat, pool water can be cooler than expected. For many of us, especially young children, finding yourself suddenly submerged in water that is much colder than expected, your muscles and lungs may respond inappropriately. It is always best to enter the water gradually to avoid cold water shock.
Lakes Near Johns Creek: Open Water Risks at Lake Lanier & Lake Allatoona
The next time you pack your bags for a day at Lake Lanier or Lake Allatoona, make sure you have packed your knowledge and necessary safety supplies for maximum enjoyment.
Deep Water Drop-Offs
Both lakes have some steep drop-offs near shore. Be sure children are wearing US Coast Guard-approved life jackets, understand how to adhere to swimming notices, and stay close to you while in or around the water.
Boat & Jet Ski Traffic
Part of the reason for designated swim areas is to avoid coming too close to wake zones caused by busy watercraft traffic. Make sure your children understand how to stay inside the swim area boundaries.
Cold Water Temperatures
As previously mentioned, cold water shock or cramps are a concern. Lakes and other large bodies of water can still be unexpectedly cold even in the height of summer.
Unpredictable Conditions
Mother Nature can be very unpredictable. Check weather conditions before heading to the lake, but stay aware of your surroundings and environment to avoid being caught by a sudden storm, heavy winds, and strong currents that can create rough water.
Creeks & Rivers: Fast-Moving Water Hazards in the Johns Creek Area
Families can enjoy boating, floating, or kayaking on local creeks, rivers, and lakes, but stay aware of the unique hazards of fast-moving water.
Strong Currents
Parts of Little River are known for having areas of fast-moving water, especially after heavy rains. Getting caught in these areas can carry a swimmer or tuber downstream quickly, separating them from their group and increasing their safety risks.
Hidden Debris
Natural bodies of water carry natural, and sometimes unnatural, hazards that can be submerged and invisible to the naked eye. Tree branches, rocks, and man-made obstacles can cause injury or entrapment.
Flash Flood Risks
Sudden rainfall, even miles away, can cause water levels and current strength to change. Always check the weather in and around your destination before heading out and heed any additional posted warnings, even when it appears safe.
Cold Water Shock
Moving waters in rivers and creeks carry the most significant risk for cold water shock. Remember to enter water slowly and carefully to stay alert to your surroundings and body responses.
Seasonal Weather Hazards in Johns Creek & North Georgia
The weather in north Georgia can be unpredictable, so stay weather-aware while swimming in Johns Creek, GA.
Afternoon Thunderstorms
Afternoon thunderstorms are a common occurrence. Keep an eye on the skies to avoid lightning, gusty winds, and changes to water levels and currents at all times.
Flash Flooding
Heavy rains can overwhelm drainage systems and fail-safes. Always pay attention to any warnings of this nature to avoid unpredictable and dangerous waters.
Extreme Heat Risks
It may seem unlikely, but One with the Water identifies heat exhaustion and heatstroke as a significant concern for swimmers. Stay hydrated and pay attention to your body’s needs and signals while you are in the water.
Waterborne Illnesses & Safety Concerns
Here are a few more things to consider for the health and safety of your family as you enjoy swimming in Johns Creek, GA.
Bacteria & Algae Blooms
The CDC reports more than 7 million instances of waterborne diseases in the US every year. Lakes Lanier and Allatoona may be susceptible to harmful algae and bacteria. Always check your local advisories before swimming.
Swimmer’s Ear & Infections
Swimmer’s ear and internal ear infections can occur from water trapped in the ear. The risk increases if the water also contains contaminants such as bacteria or pollutants. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes the importance of using ear drops, rather than items like cotton swabs, to help remove water from your ears.
Chlorine Sensitivity
Chlorine can be irritating to both your eyes and skin. Use goggles and be sure everyone showers after swimming to help prevent prolonged exposure and irritation.
How Big Blue Swim Schools in Johns Creek Helps Keep Your Kids Safe
At Big Blue Swim School in Johns Creek, water safety can begin with children as young as 3 months old. Teaching your kids how to be safe in and around water is our top priority.
Big Blue swimmers learn essential water safety practices at every level.
Baby Blue (3 months - 2 years)
- Support and movement along the pool edge
- Becoming comfortable in the water
- Basic breath control
- Rollover and back floating
Bright Blue (3 - 5 years)
- Building in-water confidence
- Rhythmic breathing
- Basics of techniques for independent movement
Bold Blue (6 years & up)
- Refining breath exchange
- Propelling solo through water
- Primary swim strokes
Big Blue (6 years & up)
- Reinforce techniques and water confidence
- Refine strokes
- Unassisted swimming for 1,000 ft.
By learning essential swimming skills in a fun and structured environment, children increase their water confidence and reduce their risk of water accidents.
Awareness, Preparation, and Water Safety
Keep your kids safe by ensuring they learn basic swim skills from qualified instructors. Big Blue Swim School in Johns Creek, GA, offers a calm, welcoming environment to build situational awareness, life-saving technique preparation, and skill practice to build strong, confident swimmers.
Contact Big Blue Swim School Johns Creek by call, text, or online form to schedule a free trial lesson!
