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About swimming and flotation aids
Swimming and flotation aids help to keep children afloat so they can become confident in the water while learning to swim.
They can be worn as a vest around the body or around the waist and arms. Designs may include cuffs, armbands, rings or seats.
Risks and injuries from the product
Children are at risk of drowning and brain injury when swimming and playing in water. This risk increases when not using flotation aids correctly, or using damaged ones.
Parents and carers should always watch children while they are in or around water. This includes when they’re using swimming and flotation aids.
Children who are playing, inexperienced, not confident, or are overconfident around water can get into trouble and panic. This can happen very quickly and quietly.
Things to look for when buying the product
Children have drowned and suffered brain injuries from not using flotation aids correctly.
For this reason, there’s a mandatory standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with.
Only buy and use swimming flotation aids that comply with the swimming and flotation aids mandatory standard.
The mandatory standard excludes:
- flotation toys
- unattached flotation devices
- articles designed only for therapeutic use
- articles designed for use by people with a disability
- personal flotation devices for use in boating or other recreational water activities.
- When you buy swimming and flotation aids for your child, follow the manufacturer’s age and weight recommendations.
- Choose a design, size and fit that suits the height and size of your child. Swimming and flotation aids designed for younger children may not be suitable if your child is above average height and size for their age group, and vice versa.
How to use the product safely
- Check swimming and flotation aids for holes, tears and leaks before using.
- If you find any damage, don’t use the aid and make sure you replace it.
- Always follow the warnings and instructions for assembly and use.
- An adult must always supervise children when they are in and around water.