Tulsa Water Safety Checklist: Tips for a Safer, Stress-Free Getaway

Planning a getaway near Tulsa? Whether you're spending the weekend at Grand Lake, renting a cabin on Keystone, or booking a family-friendly Airbnb with a pool, don’t forget to make water safety part of your packing list.

Oklahoma is full of amazing places to cool off—but unfamiliar environments can increase the risk of accidents. Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in children, and it can happen in seconds, often without a sound. The good news? A little planning can go a long way in keeping your family safe.

Before you head out on your next lake trip or poolside retreat, use this Tulsa-ready checklist to help prevent accidents and give yourself peace of mind.

Before You Book Your Getaway

That waterfront view may look perfect—but safety features aren’t always obvious in the photos. Be sure to:

• Ask about barriers. Are there fences, gates, or door alarms around pools, hot tubs, or lake access?

• Check for lifeguards. Most Oklahoma lakes don’t have them, and many vacation rentals rely entirely on adult supervision.

• Know the rules. Life jacket laws, wake zones, and swimming regulations vary from lake to lake.

• Request emergency info. Ask the host where the nearest hospital is and how to contact first responders in the area.

What to Pack for Water Safety

Beyond towels and sunscreen, a few key items can help prevent emergencies and increase visibility:

• Brightly colored swimsuits that are easy to see in natural water

• Coast Guard-approved life jackets (skip the floaties!)

• Portable alarms for doors and patios leading to water

• First Aid kit and CPR mask

When You Arrive

Before anyone heads for the water, take a few minutes to check the area for safety:

• Locate all water access points. Many lake properties have multiple entry points.

• Test barriers and gates. Make sure they work—and that little ones can’t get through.

• Identify emergency equipment. Find out where to locate rescue hooks, life rings, or First Aid supplies.

• Review any posted signs. Lakes often have warnings for currents, drop-offs, or restricted swim zones.

• Secure unused water features. Cover hot tubs, turn off fountains, and restrict access when not in use.

Water adventures around Tulsa are a great way to bond, relax, and recharge—but they’re even better when you feel confident that your loved ones are safe. Download the full vacation water safety checklist from our partners at the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) and make sure you're fully prepared for whatever water adventures come your way.

Safer Vacations Start with Swim Lessons

Enroll in swim lessons now and give your kids the skills they need to stay safer in and around water—on vacation and all year long. Essential swim skills make every trip to the lake or pool safer and more fun.

🌊 Find a Miller Swim School Location Near You »