Ensuring your children are safe around the water is the top priority at PhD Swim School. Whether you are heading to the local pool or taking a family beach trip, establishing clear boundaries can prevent accidents and build confidence. Dive into these four crucial water safety rules and learn how to implement them effectively.

a family relaxing in a school

Never Swim Without Active Supervision

The most critical rule we enforce is that children must always have dedicated adult supervision near water. We recommend designating a specific “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is observing the swimmers without any distractions like cell phones or books. Consistent and alert monitoring is the absolute best defense against unexpected accidents, ensuring everyone stays completely safe.

kids sitting by a pool

Always Swim with a Buddy

We always teach our students that swimming alone is never an option, regardless of their skill level. Enforcing the buddy system guarantees that someone is always there to help or call for assistance if an emergency arises. It is a simple yet vital habit we encourage every family to adopt for both backyard pools and vacations.

a child using a kick board

Enroll in Professional Swim Lessons

Formal education dramatically reduces the risk of drowning by providing essential survival skills. By enrolling your children in professional swim lessons in Durham, NC, we can help them develop strong techniques and water confidence. Our structured programs ensure that learners of all ages understand water dynamics, breathing control, and safe exit strategies for any aquatic environment.

kids in lifejackets on a tube

Wear Properly Fitted Life Jackets

We strongly advise families to utilize Coast Guard-approved life jackets for inexperienced swimmers and during open-water boating excursions. Inflatable toys and water wings are not reliable safety devices and can often provide a false sense of security. Taking the time to fit a certified life vest properly is a necessary step we advocate for maximum protection.

Establishing these four boundaries—active supervision, the buddy system, formal training, and proper safety gear—is the best way to ensure a joyful and secure aquatic experience. At PhD Swim School, we are dedicated to fostering these vital habits through comprehensive education and skill-building. Reach out to our team to find the perfect class for your family’s needs.

Coach Katie Blalock

SENIOR INSTRUCTOR, DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Katie B. is a former sprint triathlete and triathlete coach. She also has experience teaching fearful adult beginners how to swim. Katie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. She also has prior accounting and business administration experience with Raleigh Brewing Company and Charles & Colvard.

Katie has two boys herself and loves working with young children. She is a gifted teacher with special strengths in class organization, maintaining structure in a fun environment, and establishing a relationship of trust with her students. Katie has undergone over fifty hours of intense in-water and academic training to learn our method. She primarily manages all day-to-day business activities and is also an instructor. She currently teaches Survival, Kicks & Tricks, and, FUNdations.