With Spring Break just around the corner, parents everywhere are gearing up for fun in the sun. But before you buy your child’s swimwear for the season, there’s one crucial safety tip you need to know: Avoid blue bathing suits!
Why Are Blue Bathing Suits Dangerous?
At first, it might not seem like a big deal, but in an emergency, every second counts—and blue swimsuits can make a life-or-death difference.
A viral TikTok video by swim instructor and mom Nikki Scarnati has been making waves, showing just how dangerous light blue swimwear can be. In her video, she puts her daughter in a blue bathing suit and demonstrates how it blends perfectly into the water, making her nearly invisible.
Now, imagine a real emergency:
- If a child goes underwater unnoticed, a blue swimsuit makes it even harder to spot them.
- Crowded pools with splashing water make it difficult to see a submerged child—especially in a swimsuit that camouflages with the pool floor.
Drowning Statistics in Texas
Drowning is a serious risk for children, and visibility matters more than you think. According to the Texas Department of Family & Protective Services:
- In 2022, at least 76 fatal child drownings were reported in Texas.
- For children aged 1-15, there are estimated to be 8 times more non-fatal drownings than fatal ones.
This means that hundreds of children experience near-drownings each year—many of which could be prevented with better visibility and quick action.
What Colors Are Safest for Swimwear?
If blue is a no-go, then what colors should you choose for your child’s swimsuit?
Best Colors for Visibility in Water
- Bright Orange – Highly visible in both pools and open water.
- Neon Yellow – Stands out even in murky or dark water.
- Bright Red – Easy to spot against blue or green water backgrounds.
- Hot Pink – A vivid color that contrasts well with natural and pool environments.
Worst Colors for Visibility in Water
- Light Blue & Pastels – Blend into water, making children hard to see.
- White or Gray – Can look like glare or bubbles in the water.
- Black or Dark Colors – Easily disappear in deeper water.
Lifeguards Agree: Bright Colors Save Lives
Many lifeguards and water safety experts have backed up this warning, agreeing that blue and pastel swimwear makes their job much harder. If a child is in distress, the first few moments are crucial, and clear visibility could mean the difference between life and death.
Final Safety Tips for Parents
- Always keep an eye on your child—even in lifeguarded areas.
- Choose bright swimwear to improve visibility.
- Teach kids basic water safety and consider swim lessons.
- Use Coast Guard-approved life jackets for non-swimmers.
- Be cautious in pools, lakes, and oceans—visibility can vary based on lighting and water conditions.