Swimming pools are great for family fun. With all that fun, comes a downside. Big responsibilities come with being a swimming pool owner. Pool safety is a must when it comes to friends and family swimming in your pool. There is much more to it than pool covers, alarms, and gates. Adults should always be home when children are swimming in the pool. Owners should follow a set of safety rules to in order to swim safely.
- Teach your kids how to swim. Immediately. – Start swim lessons as an infant. Mommy and me classes are a great asset that many Red Cross programs include.
- Never leave a child unattended in or near water. – Always watch them when they are in the water without distraction. Even if they know how to swim. Kids get tired quickly when swimming.
- Watch out for pool drains. – Teach kids to stay away from swimming pool drains. Children’s hair, limbs, clothing, etc. can get stuck in drains. Make sure your drain covers are not broken or damaged.
- Have proper barriers. – Install alarms, fences, gates, safety pool covers in and around your pool. Teach children to never climb a gate or a fence.
- Have every adult be CPR certified. – Get certified on CPR for all age groups not just infants and children. Bystanders are the first to aid a drowning victim. CPR classes are available through many hospitals, community centers, or by contacting the American Red Cross.
Pool safety facts to swim safely:
- Drowning is usually silent. – It can be light splashing, waving, or screaming.
- It’s Your Responsibility. – Watching a child in the pool is your responsibility if you are the homeowner.
- Drowning is quick. – Once active drowning begins, you have less than 1 minute to react.
- Swim lessons are essential. – Skill levels do vary. Make sure everyone in your household finishes a Red Cross swim program.