Summer can be a hectic time of year and nice weather means a lot of outdoor activities. One of the more popular activities is swimming. Many people own their own pool or may know someone that has a pool nearby. The water can be a great way to relax, exercise, enjoy the sun, and have fun, but it is important to remember that swimming can also be dangerous.
Here are a few tips to ensure safe swimming at the pool so that everyone can have some fun-in-the-sun:
Supervision Tips:
- Never allow a small or young child in the pool without an adult supervising.
- Never leave a child of any age near the pool without adult supervision.
- Do not let any children run near the pool.
- Do not allow any glass containers near the pool.
- Do not permit diving in shallow water.
- Swimming lessons do not always produce a swimmer; make sure to watch young children even if they have had lessons in the past.
- There should always be someone supervising at the pool that knows cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR.
- Before leaving children with a babysitter, provide them with safety instructions, rules and emergency phone numbers. Also, make sure that they know CPR.
- If your child is going to a friend’s pool, make sure there are safe pool conditions, adult supervision, and someone who knows CPR.
- Keep a telephone nearby in case of an emergency.
- If a child is missing, always check the pool first thoroughly. Also, check the pool area.
Equipment Tips:
- Always have rescue equipment that works properly close by.
- Safety equipment essentials include a flotation ring and an extension pole.
- Keep the gate to the pool closed at all times.
- The pool water should always be clean and free of debris such as leaves and dead insects.
- Keep clear of any drains, filters, or water intakes which can trap swimmers under water.
- Electrical equipment such a radios should be a safe distance from the water.
Swimming Toys and Flotation Devices:
- Always remove toys and flotation devices from the pool when not in use because they tend to attract young children;
- A child wearing flotation devices still needs to be supervised; and
- Small children who can’t swim should wear life jackets.
Sources: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; The Mayo Clinic.
