Private swimming pools often serve as a hub where families spend time together, recreate together and have fun creating stronger relationships. Tragic accidents can be avoided when effective safety strategies are used to secure the pool and proper safety rules are in place and observed. Accidents happen. Do not assume that they will never happen to you or those you love. Be responsible by doing everything in your power to make sure that your family, friends and loved ones are safe at the swimming pool.
Supervision
Supervision of children and non-swimmers is imperative. One-on-one adult supervision is recommended for children. If supervising a child, you are too far away if you are unable to reach the child with an outstretched arm. Young children under 7 and non-swimmers should wear a PFD, personal flotation device, when in water at or above chest height. Flotation toys are not intended to prevent drowning. Implement the buddy system for everyone. Good swimmers and adults alike should never swim alone.
Security
Private swimming pools need to be fenced with vertical railing, which is difficult to climb. Slats or posts should be close together to keep children from slipping through. A self-closing, self-latching gate is needed so that children cannot enter easily . Alarms and pool covers are additional measures that can be taken for added safety.
Equipment
If you find yourself in an emergency situation, your actions will be especially fast if the necessary equipment is close by and within reach. A poolside telephone can be accessed quickly to call for help. A whistle or alarm is used to notify others of the emergency. A reaching pole that is at least 9 feet long with a hook on the end is useful for pulling people out of the water. Private pools also need a flotation device, like a life saver, that can be thrown to a victim. The device should be hooked to a buoyant rope that reaches all the way across the pool. A first-aid kit should also be nearby and accessible.
Emergencies
In the event of an emergency, a plan must be in place so that actions are quick and decisive; you don't want to waste valuable time. Signal others, indicating there is a problem and assistance is needed. Call for help and clear everyone out of the pool. Check the scene for safety and remove any possible hazards, but only if there is no risk to you or others---avoid additional victims. Carry out the rescue and call 911 as soon as possible. Provide first-aid according to your level of certification.
Rules
Safety rules are specific to the pool and surrounding area. Pool owners should identify possible areas of concern, and the rules should reflect an attempt to make the area safe. The following are examples of safety rules: walk, do not run; no diving; no drinking when swimming; use the buddy system when swimming; and do not push. Carefully consider the rules that make sense for your individual pool and situation. Post the rules where they can be seen easily and read by all.
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