Millions of Americans enjoy taking a leisurely dip in the pool or even racing competitively. However, swimming also accounts for more than 3,400 drowning deaths annually and four times that many trips to the emergency room, according to the Centers for Disease Control. By following basic safety rules, swimmers can make the most of their visits to the pool and avoid becoming statistics.
Supervise and Use Buddies
Even the most advanced swimmer should never swim alone. Swimmers can hit their heads, become overtired, underestimate their stamina, become disoriented, have a seizure or get bitten by a snake or insect. Use the buddy system or swim at a pool with lifeguards during regular operating hours. When swimming at home or in a private pool without lifeguards, be sure there is a designated person whose sole job is to watch people in the pool. Never rely on flotation devices to protect children from drowning.
Follow Posted Rules
Many pools clearly post safety rules for swimmers to see. Running on the deck, playing roughly in or out of the water and diving into shallow water are prohibited. Around diving boards, swimmers must be particularly careful by taking turns, waiting for the previous diver to exit the water and bouncing only once on the board. Food, drinks and gum are restricted to areas outside of the pool area to avoid choking hazards, and glass is not allowed.
Choose Safe Environments
Swimmers should be wary of using any pools that are not well maintained. Pools with murky water, dim lighting, unmarked depth levels, loose tiles or antiquated drains pose a danger. To avoid infections, ear aches or sinus problems, choose pools without algae growing on the walls, debris in the water or heavy amounts of chlorine, indicated by a burning sensation in the eyes. Homeowners must take preventative measures such as installing a self-closing door, a see-through pool fence or an alarm system that activates when something touches the water.
Prepare for Emergencies
If a swimmer gets into trouble in the water, knowing what to do can prevent a tragedy. The Red Cross recommends that all swimmers should learn basic water survival skills such as holding their breath, treading water and floating on their backs. Lifeguards and other supervising adults should take a course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation to keep a person alive before emergency personnel arrives. Pools should be equipped with basic rescue gear such as a life buoy and long-handled hook to assist struggling swimmers. A public phone with emergency numbers should be accessible.
References
- Consumer Product Safety Commission: Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Starts With You
- Health Link British Columbia: Safety Tips for Swimmers
- American Red Cross: Home Pool Safety is Essential for Summer Fun
- MSNBC Today Show: Swim Safety: How to Protect Kids in Pools
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Injury Prevention & Control: Home and Recreational Safety
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