When the weather is hot and the kids are out of school, there aren't many things more fun for them to take a dip in the pool. But one of the most popular recreational activities in the summer can also turn into one of the deadliest. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of 385 children younger than 15 years old drowned in pool- or spa-related accidents every year from 2005 to 2007. You can keep kids safe by making sure they understand certain pool safety rules.
No Running or Roughhousing
Kids can get easily exited around the pool and may be tempted to chase one another, hurry to be the first one to the slide or play rough games, but all of these activities can potentially lead to injury or even drowning. Make sure kids know that running around the pool is unsafe because of slick surfaces caused by water and that roughhousing doesn't belong in the pool.
Only Swim With an Adult
Taking a dip in the backyard pool may seem harmless, but 74 percent of the swimming fatalities of children younger than 15 from 2005 to 2007 occurred at residential pools, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Most public or commercial pools are required to have a trained and certified lifeguard on duty. While that's not usually possible at your home pool, make a rule that kids can't swim unless at least one adult is there to watch and enforce the rules.
No Eating
Food doesn't just cause a mess in the pool, it can be potentially life-threatening. Chewing food or gum while swimming can cause kids to choke. Make sure kids know food should be eaten either before or after swimming, but not during.
Stay Away From Drains
Pool drains are a common cause of injury, especially among children ages 5 to 9, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Teach kids to stay away from drains, spouts or other protrusions in the pool that could cause injury.
Practice the Buddy System
Even the most experienced swimmers can experience trouble at some point while swimming. Have kids pair off and keep an eye on one another and stay within reach at all times. Using the buddy system can help prevent accidents and provide someone to go get help in the case of an injury.
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