Pool Season Safety

The summer season is pool season. Many of us will shed the layers of clothes we’ve been hiding under all winter to soak up some sun and catch a few waves (or, if you are more like me, find a giant raft to lazily float around on!)

Pools can be a lot of fun, but we all know that they pose a lot of risks, too. The risks are even greater when there are children involved. Accidental drowning is the #2 killer of children up to the age of 14. So as you are gearing up for pool season this year, remember to take into account the potential dangers that are lurking in the water, and prepare your kids to have fun- safely!

Here are some tips:

• (This is a no-brainer) Never leave your kids unattended in or around the water, and make sure an adult is present at all times. Don’t let another child supervise.
• Make sure that your backyard pool (and your neighbors’ backyard pool) is surrounded by a fence. This will prevent curious youngsters from sneaking into the pool.
• Teach your children to not to engage in horseplay around open water.
• Cover your pool when it is not in use.
• Don’t leave toys or floats in the water, they may attract children.
• Don’t assume your children are safe because they know how to swim or are using floatation devices.
• Enroll your kids in a Learn-to-Swim program.
• Keep a phone near the pool so you can easily call for help.
• If a child is missing, check the pool first. Precious seconds matter.
• Learn CPR.

Learn more about keeping your kids safe from a swimming pool-related accident here. Have fun and stay safe this summer!