What action is necessary to ensure a child’s safety with regards to lifejackets?

Fitting and properly putting a lifejacket on a child is crucial for their safety while in or near water. A lifejacket is designed to provide buoyancy and keep the child's head above water, significantly reducing the risk of drowning. A well-fitted lifejacket should be snug but not too tight, allowing for freedom of movement while ensuring that it will stay securely in place during any unexpected incidents, such as slipping into the water.

While teaching a child to swim independently, float on their back, or signal for help are all valuable skills for water safety, they do not replace the necessity of correctly using a lifejacket. These skills can enhance a child's confidence and ability in the water, but the lifejacket serves as a primary safety measure, especially for those who may not be fully proficient swimmers. Therefore, ensuring that the lifejacket is fitted correctly is a fundamental step in safeguarding the child's well-being in aquatic environments.