27 Jan POOL SAFETY ESSENTIALS
Summer is here and with it comes the opportunity to spend time by the pool. Whether you have your own backyard pool or frequently visit public pools, it’s important to keep child safety in mind at all times.
Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children aged 1-4 and it only takes a few inches of water and a few seconds for a child to drown. It’s important to always supervise children when they are near to or in a pool and to make sure that any pool area is secured with proper fencing and gate locks.
Here are a few tips for keeping children safe around pools:
- Learn CPR: In the event of an emergency, knowing CPR can mean the difference between life and death. Make sure that at least one responsible adult in your family is trained in CPR.
- Use pool alarms: Consider using pool alarms, which will sound an alarm if a child falls into the pool.
- Have pool rules: Establish and enforce rules for children to follow when they are in or near the pool. This can include things like no running, no diving in shallow areas, and no pushing or roughhousing.
- Use lifejackets: Children who are not strong swimmers should always wear a life jacket when they are in the pool or near the water.
- Store pool toys safely: Pool toys can be a big distraction for children and can lead to them wandering into the pool unsupervised. Make sure to store pool toys safely when they are not in use.
- Keep emergency numbers on hand: Make sure that you have the phone numbers for emergency services and the pool’s lifeguard on hand in case of an emergency.
To wrap it up, the safety of children around pools is crucial. By following these safety tips, you can make sure your child can have fun in the pool while being safe. Don’t forget that adult supervision is important, and never leave a child alone near the water.