Swimming is one of the most popular summer activities, especially for children. But it can also be a dangerous one. The majority of drownings among children ages 1 to 4 occur in residential pools, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Establishing a few simple safety rules can go a long way toward protecting children from pool-related injuries and death.
Running and Horseplay
Children get excited when it comes to swimming, and it can be easy for them to roughhouse and play around the pool, but parents and lifeguards should monitor and limit running and horseplay in the pool area due to the hard concrete surfaces often surrounding residential and community pools. The wet surfaces around and in the pool make it easy for kids to slip and injure themselves.
Adult Supervision
Kids should never be in the pool without the supervision of an adult. Even teenagers run the risk of injury or death if not supervised by an adult, preferably one trained in CPR and first aid. An adult to supervise can help ensure all the proper rules are being followed and that someone is watching the activity going on to make sure nothing gets out of hand.
Weather
Drowning isn't the only risk kids and adults face when swimming. Lightning can pose a major risk to people in the water, so if you hear thunder, get out of the pool immediately and don't return until at least a half hour after the storm has passed.
Barriers
For homes with small children, parents should take every precaution possible to prevent kids from accessing the pool. Don't count on being able to watch your child's every move. Most children who suffer drowning in residential pools were only out of sight for five minutes and were under the care of one or more parents when the accident occurred, according to the CDC. Install a fence or barrier that's at least 4 feet tall and with slats no more than 4 inches apart. Install a gate with a self-closing latch high enough off the ground that kids can't reach. Installing an alarm on the gate can also notify you if a child or someone else has opened the pool gate, increasing your chances of catching your child before he goes into the pool.
Health
Despite the chemicals in pools, bacteria can still thrive in the water. Make sure babies and toddlers wear pool diapers, which can reduce potential human waste from getting in the pool. Don't swim if you're sick or have an open cut or wound.
Member Comments