Pool injuries and fatalities are very prevalent around the summer time. Drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional death for children aged one to four. For every death, there are twice as many hospitalizations resulting from pool injuries.
Here are 5 ways to promote pool safety
- LEARN to swim– Swimming is a life saving skill. Teach your child how to swim. Educate them on what to do if they fall in the water, how to doggy paddle, how to blow bubbles when they go under water and how to float. We always taught our girls repetitively to find the wall if they fall in so it becomes a muscle memory. If they get tired from trying to find the wall, we taught them how to float.
- Learn CPR– The first 4-6 minutes is crucial in regards to irreversible brain damage from drowning. CPR is the most important life saving class you can take when you have kids. Once you’re CPR certified, make sure to keep your certification current for up-to-date skills. CPR classes are usually available through many hospitals, community centers, and/or by the American Red Cross.
- Provide physical barriers– Walls, fences, barriers, alarms and covers are the first line of defense and can be lifesaving devices. In our area, a fence surrounding the back yard is required. A fence has to be at least 4 feet in hight. Doors should have self-closing, self-latching devices and locks that are too high for children to reach. Also, there should not be any openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through. Pool covers are also a good idea to consider while the pool is not in use. Lastly, alarms are important to utilize for your back door leading out to the pool area. There are also alarms you can purchase for in the pool that sounds when something or someone falls in water. The alarm should sound very distinct from other sounds in the home. They even have alarms now that connect to an app.
- Drains– Stay away from pool and spa drains that can create underwater suction with enough force to trap even strong swimmers below the surface. Never enter a pool or spa that has a loose, broken or missing drain cover. Most newer pools and community pools should be regulated to have a drain cover; however, some older homes may not have this feature.
- Provide pool rules for your children such as….Never swim alone, walk dont run, and what to do if someone get hurts and/or falls in.
It is also important to note, always watch children when they’re in or near water, and never leave them unattended.
How do you handle pool safety in your home?
