Every year almost 300 children under 5 years old drown in a swimming pool, and more than 2,000 children in that same age group are treated for submersion injuries including brain damage. Swimming pool accidents are the leading cause of death in some of this country’s warmer states. With summer around the corner, informing parents and caregivers about swimming safety is a precaution that just can’t be ignored.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) conducted a comprehensive study of drowning and submersion incidents involving children under 5 years old and found that:

• Seventy-five percent of the children were between the ages of 1 and 3 years old.
• The children were being supervised by parents or caregivers.
• The accidents tended to happen very quickly.
• Seventy-seven percent of the children had been out of sight or missing for five minutes or less.
• The success of the rescue depends on the time and how quickly the child could start the breathing process.
• Many pool deaths are silent and usually are absent of splashing noises.

Owning a pool can be a huge liability. It is important for pool owners to take precautions to ensure the safety of young children near the water.

Even if you do not own a pool, it is important to know where your child may be swimming and the danger they could be in. If the correct safety precautions are taken, swimming at the pool can be safe and fun.

Pool Safety Considerations:

Here are a few ways to ensure your pool or the pool your kids are visiting is safe:

Fencing:

• Build a fence or a wall that children can’t climb or squeeze through at least 4 feet high surrounding the pool.
• Install an alarm at the doorway leading from the house to the pool or at entrance of the pool.

The Gate:

• The latch on the gate should be easy to maneuver and be out of reach for children.
• Make sure the gate is always working properly.
• Never leave the gate open.

Pool Covers:

• Install a power safety cover to go over the pool. Power safety covers are powered by a motor and can easily open and close over the pool. This type of cover provides safety especially for children under 5 years old.
• The cover should meet the requirements of American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
• When using a standard pool cover (without a motor), make sure there is no excess standing water on the cover such as rain water from a storm.

Above-Ground Pools

• Pool ladders and steps need to be secured and locked.
• Remove ladders and steps when the pool is not being used.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission