With the heat of summer upon us, we want to remind you of some pool safety tips. Since drowning remains the leading cause of unintentional death among children aged 1 to 4 years old, let’s remember these simple steps to ensure that everyone remains safe and enjoys their lazy summer days by the pool.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) believes that when safety strategies are put into place, children and adults are protected in and around the water:
- Never leave a child unattended when they are in a pool.
- Learn how to swim and teach your child how to swim.
- Learn CPR.
- Put up fencing around your pool or spa that is at least 5 feet high and non-climbable.
- (Like your mom always told you) no running around the pool!
- Make sure to wear and reapply sunscreen if going outdoors.
- Teach your children basic water safety tips.
- If a child is unaccounted for, look in your pool or spa first.
- If jumping into a pool, make sure they jump feet first instead of diving in headfirst. If diving in a shallow pool, this can result in neck or spinal injuries.
- Do not leave any pool toys outside of the water that may trip others.
Remember, water loss from evaporation from an average-sized pool can be as high as 1,000 gallons per week – around $13 per month on your water bill. The loss or injury of a child, however, has no price tag, so be smart with pool safety! Keep an eye on your kids, pets and anyone else as you enjoy your pool this summer.
