Poolside Vacations: Why You Should Put Down Your Phone and Watch Your Kids in the Water
At Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic, we know many of our clients love poolside vacations — whether at sunny resorts, lakeside cottages, or family backyard pools. But relaxing by the water comes with serious safety responsibilities, especially when children are involved.
The Lifesaving Society is warning parents and caregivers to keep their phones out of their hands when supervising kids around water. Their message is urgent: there’s been a spike in drowning deaths this year, particularly in Ontario and Quebec.
Last week alone, three people — including two young children and a 24-year-old kayaker — died in separate drowning incidents in Ontario. According to the Lifesaving Society, absent or distracted caregivers are a factor in over 90% of drownings among children under five.
“Drowning is fast and it is silent and it can happen before you even realize it,” said senior communications officer Stephanie Bakalar. “We have to have our eyes on our kids at all times.”
Key Safety Reminders for Your Next Poolside or Beach Holiday:
- No phones while supervising: Leave your phone on a table, face down. Only use it to call 911 in an emergency.
- Never look away, even for a moment: Distractions like sunscreen application, talking to friends, or tying a life-jacket can create enough time for a child to slip underwater.
- Designate a “water watcher”: At pool parties or family gatherings, assign a responsible adult whose sole job is to watch children in the water — no alcohol, no distractions, and ideally, swimming skills.
- Tag-team supervision: If the watcher must leave, they should clearly hand off responsibility to another adult.
- Life-jackets save lives: Especially for younger swimmers and young men, who statistically have higher drowning risks.
Preliminary national data shows Ontario and Quebec have seen the biggest jumps in drowning deaths this year. Many of these tragedies are preventable with vigilant, distraction-free supervision.
Your vacation should be memorable for the right reasons. When you travel — especially to sunny poolside destinations — keep water safety a priority. A quick glance at your phone is never worth the risk.
Safe travels and safe swimming — from your team at Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic.
DTC Poolside Travel Safety Checklist
Stay safe while you soak up the sun.
- Watch the Water — No Distractions
Assign a designated water watcher at all times.
Put your phone away — calls and texts can wait. - Life-Jackets Are Non-Negotiable
For kids and weak swimmers, always wear a life-jacket.
Choose Transport Canada-approved models. - Pool & Beach Rules Matter
No running near the water.
Obey lifeguard instructions immediately. - Layer Sun Protection
SPF 30+ sunscreen reapplied every 2 hours.
Hats, sunglasses, and shaded breaks. - Hydrate Before You Dehydrate
Keep water bottles handy.
Avoid excess alcohol while supervising. - Plan for Emergencies
Know the location of rescue equipment and first aid kits.
Save local emergency numbers in your phone. - Buddy System for All Ages
Kids and adults should swim with a partner.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
