As summer approaches, everyone becomes eager to spend some time by the pool.
According to American Heart Association, drowning remains a leading cause of accidental deaths among children worldwide. To ensure a safe and enjoyable pool experience for everyone, it's essential to be proactive in implementing effective safety measures.
1. Adult Supervision:
The most critical aspect of pool safety is continuous supervision. Never leave children unattended around a pool, even for a few seconds. Designate an adult as the designated "water watcher" whose sole responsibility is to keep an eye on children in the water.
2. Swimming & Safety Skills:
Investing in swimming lessons for children is an excellent way to instill water safety skills and build confidence in the water. Ensure that children understand the basics of swimming, such as floating, treading water, and how/where to safely enter and exit the pool.
3. Keeping the Pool Area Safe:
Create barriers around the pool area to prevent unsupervised access. Install a sturdy fence with a self-locking gate around all sides of the pool, isolating it from the rest of the yard. The fence should be at least four feet high, with no footholds or handholds for children to climb over. Consider using pool covers or alarms to add an extra layer of protection and ensure that access points remain secure.
4. Wear Bright Colors and High-Visibility Designs
Choose bathing suits in bright, vibrant colors that are easily visible from a distance. Colors like neon yellow, orange, pink, or lime green are highly effective in making children stand out in the water. Avoid dark or camouflage patterns that may make it difficult to spot a child in need of assistance.
May 25, 2023
Brandon Schoborg
Captain, EMS
Hebron Fire Protection District