Your pool is the place where friends and family gather to escape the hot summer days. Swimming is loads of fun, especially for children! When it comes to the water, majority of kids have no fear. This is why it is crucial for rules to be implemented, and all visitors and family members to be aware and understand your pools rules.
- Know where your children are at all times
Always keep your eyes open for children in/around the water. An arms length away is a good rule of thumb. Most children who fall into pools, do so when their parents are inside and have no idea the child is out around the water.
- Make sure everything is secure
It’s always good to check your local by-laws regarding requirements for your pool. Fencing and gates extend from the ground to the height of 5 feet. According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, isolation fencing that’s tough for children to climb on can prevent more than half of pool drownings.
- Keep pool covered when not in use
A rigid safety cover is a great option, even during the swimming season. Make sure that the cover fits securely over the entire pool surface.
- Clean up pool area after swimming
After swimming, and splashing everyone is tired! All you want to do is get inside, grab a snack, and relax on the couch. The pool clean up can wait till tomorrow! NOT! Cleaning up should happen directly after you’re done in the pool. Pool toys, and equipment is a tripping hazard for children – not only that, but seeing the toys may entice your children to start playing again.
- Teaching your children to swim/tread water
The ability to swim doesn’t take away hazards that are involved with being in a body of water, but the ability to tread water can keep your child afloat until help arrives. It is easy to rely on flotation devices such as water wings, and pool rings, but these devices are not made for purpose of safety in the water. It takes seconds for a child to take them off, and slip under water. Drowning can be silent, it’s not always like the movies with lots of splashing and screaming.
Hopefully these tips are helpful for a safe and happy pool season!
