A backyard swimming pool not only offers a wonderful source of fun and exercise but provides a gathering place for friends and family time. Swimming can also be a great learning opportunity with games that incorporate counting, searching, organizing, and strategy. However, swimming pools can be dangerous.
Keep Your Children Safe in the Pool This Summer
Supervision and strict safety guidelines are vital to minimize risk and avoid injury and even death. Every year, approximately 350 children under the age of five drown in pools in this country. Drowning is the second leading cause of death from unintentional injuries to this age group, second only to motor vehicle accidents. Drowning can occur in as little as 30 seconds and often happens quietly.
Be responsible. Be aware. Be vigilant. Know where the kids are, when they are in the pool and who is responsible for supervision. Make sure children are aware of the rules and follow them. There is no room for distraction.
Here is a list of helpful swimming pool safety tips:
- Always have adult supervision
- Apply sunscreen
- Check water depth
- Drink plenty of water
- Enroll children into learn-to-swim courses
- Install a gate alarm to pool access
- Install an in-the-water pool alarm
- Keep life jackets and reaching/throwing safety equipment handy
- Make sure EVERYONE follows the rules at all times
- Never leave a young child unattended
- No one ever swims alone
- No running
- Put toys away when not in use
- Secure pool with appropriate barriers (experts recommend a fence of at least 4’ tall with tightly spaced slats)
- Set a good example for children
- Teach children to ask permission to enter the water
- Young & inexperienced swimmers wear swim floaties
