The holidays are a magical time for many people, often filled with family gatherings and perhaps a much-anticipated getaway! If your holiday plans include a trip to a sunnier destination or a staycation with resort amenities, you’re likely dreaming of sparkling pools and relaxing hot tubs. But before you dive in, you need to think about something important: water safety, because nothing ruins a holiday faster than an unexpected illness or accident.

To spend your holiday trip making great memories, not emergency room visits — or worse, suffering the heartache of losing a loved one due to drowning — follow these practical, family-friendly tips to enjoy those inviting waters safely.

Before You Book: Quick Checks

​​Before you dive into booking that perfect getaway, take a moment to make sure the pool or spa you’ll be using is as safe as it looks. A few quick questions can reveal whether the property follows best practices for water safety and maintenance — helping you relax with confidence once you arrive:

• Look for Strong Safety Practices: Does the property reference the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) or local health department standards? That’s a good sign.
• Ask About Lifeguards and Inspections: Many jurisdictions base codes on the MAHC Fifth edition (2024); operators should know and follow it.
• Confirm Hot-Tub Maintenance Protocols: Hotels should follow CDC Legionella control guidance (e.g., regular testing and disinfection).

Pool Safety: What to Look for on Site

Whether it’s a massive resort pool with waterslides or a smaller hotel dip, pools are often the star attraction. Here’s how to keep the fun flowing:

• Lifeguards: It may seem obvious, but always check whether a lifeguard is on duty, especially if you have children. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, an extra pair of trained eyes is invaluable.
• Water Clarity: You should be able to see the main drain clearly in the deep end. Murky water is a red flag. 
• Clean Decks and Equipment: Tiles, rails, and skimmers should look clean and intact; broken tiles or slimy surfaces suggest poor upkeep. Poor maintenance is a common factor in pool-associated outbreaks.
• Safe Drains and Covers: US public pools must meet the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act standards. Never use a pool or spa with loose, broken, or missing drain covers; suction from drains can entrap even strong swimmers.  
• Read and Follow the Rules: Every pool has rules — depth markers, no-diving signs, and capacity limits. They’re there for a reason! Take a moment to read and understand them.
• Check for Safety Equipment: Life rings or shepherd’s hooks that are readily available are a good sign of a well-maintained facility.

Smart Swimming Habits (for Adults and Kids)

Whether you’re heading to a hotel pool, the beach, a lake, or a river, safe swimming starts with smart habits. These simple, evidence-based practices help prevent illness and injury — keeping both kids and adults safer in and around the water:

• Watch the Water, Not Your Phone: Designate a water watcher who stays within arm’s reach of young or weak swimmers. Close supervision is a consistent best practice in MAHC-aligned guidance.
• Use Well-Fitting US Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets: Use these in addition to, not instead of, supervision for weak or non-swimmers in and around pools.

• Use a Buddy System for Everyone: Swim with a buddy, even if you’re an adult. For children, constant, active adult supervision is a must. Drowning is silent and can happen in seconds.
• Know Your Limits: Don’t overestimate your or your children’s swimming ability. Stick to depths where you feel comfortable.

Hot Tubs: Relaxing, but Be Aware

Ah, the hot tub! A perfect way to unwind after a day of holiday hustle and bustle. However, hot tubs require a different kind of awareness due to their warmer temperatures and enclosed environments:

• Check the Water Quality: Before you even think about getting in, take a look and a sniff. The water should be clear, not cloudy, and there shouldn’t be a strong, unpleasant chemical odor. A well-maintained hot tub will have a faint chlorine smell but not an overpowering one. Cloudy water can indicate improper sanitation.
• Temperature Matters: Hot tubs are, well, hot! Avoid prolonged exposure to higher temperatures, which can cause heatstroke, especially in children. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that hot tub temperatures should not exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius).
• Time Limits Are Wise: Don’t soak for too long. A 15 to 20-minute stay is usually plenty. More extended periods, especially in very hot water, can lead to dizziness, nausea, and overheating.
• Children and Hot Tubs: Children under five should avoid hot tubs. Their bodies are not as good at regulating temperature, making them highly susceptible to overheating. For older children, keep their time very short and make sure the temperature is not too high. 
• Alcohol or Drugs: Don’t combine alcohol or drugs with hot tub use, as the combination can be dangerous, increasing the risk of overheating, drowsiness, and accidents.
• Pregnant People and Those With Certain Health Conditions: Get informed before use. The Cleveland Clinic advises that pregnant women and people living with certain health conditions should consult a clinician before hot-tub use.

Resort Water Features: More Than Just Pools

Many resorts boast fantastic water parks, lazy rivers, and splash pads. While these are incredibly fun, the same safety principles apply, often with a few extra considerations:

• Listen to Ride Attendants: If there are waterslides or other attractions, always follow the attendants’ instructions. They’re there to ensure everyone’s safety.
• Obey Height and Weight Restrictions: Pay attention to any posted height or weight restrictions for slides and rides. These are non-negotiable for safety.
• Supervise Actively: Be more vigilant with children in chaotic water areas. It’s easy to get separated in a crowded water park.

A Quick Word on Recreational Water Illnesses 

While we don’t want to be alarmist, it’s good to be aware of recreational water illnesses. These are illnesses caused by germs and chemicals found in the water we swim or play in. Some germs — such as Cryptosporidium — can survive for days, even in properly chlorinated water. The good news? You can significantly reduce your risk!

• Don’t Swim When Sick: Avoid swimming if you’re sick, especially if you have diarrhea. It’s one of the easiest ways to spread germs.
• Shower Before You Swim: Remove any potential germs on your body with a shower.
• Avoid Swallowing Water: While this applies to pools, too, it’s crucial in hot tubs. The warmer water can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not correctly disinfected.
• Take Bathroom Breaks, and Do Diaper Checks: Make sure to change diapers away from the water.

Help Us Prevent Drowning

By keeping these simple tips in mind, you can ensure that your holiday travels are filled with safe, splashy fun and wonderful memories, free from preventable mishaps or illnesses. So pack your swimsuit, your sunscreen, and your water safety smarts, and have a truly fantastic holiday!

Together, we can end the heartache of losing a loved one due to drowning. Your gift is an opportunity to help us prevent drowning through funding our water safety outreach programs, including initiatives that target schools and community groups to keep everyone safe. You can also participate in our Water Safety Challenge to assess your family’s or community’s water safety competence and help us deliver water safety outreach to schools and community groups, keeping everyone safe.

Enjoy a water-safe holiday!