Teaching kids to enjoy the water safely is a milestone that will benefit them the rest of their lives.  Here are some tips to make those lessons stick for a lifetime. 

• Set an example.  Kids are not dumb and when they see adults failing to wear lifejackets and making bad decisions the expectation is they can do the same when they're older.  The best thing adults can do is practice what they preach.  Wear your lifejacket when the kids are expected to wear theirs.  Don't take chances you wouldn't want your kids to take.  We want our kids to practice safety into adulthood.  Make those childhood lessons stick by setting an example- it is by far the most effective thing you can do!
• Watch your children!  It only takes 20 seconds for a child to drown and then they're gone forever.  Make sure to watch your children every second they're around water.
• Use lifejackets!  Floating toys pop.  Floating toys float away.  Foating toys are toys and do not replace a lifejacket. 
• Teach them to swim.  Swimming lessons not only teach swimming, but also reinforce the importance of being safe around water.
• Be responsible.  Don't take chances with your safety.  Regardless if the kids are around at the time, they need YOU to be there for them for a lifetime.