Summer may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about pool safety. If nobody is swimming, it also means that there is less chance that someone is watching. Children aged 1-4 have the highest drowning rates of any age group with 1 out of 3 accidental deaths caused by drowning.
Today it is absolutely imperative that outdoor pools are equipped with a pool alarm, even if it’s just used for children who are visiting.
A Pool alarm is an electronic monitoring system sends out an ear piercing alarm when a child or pet falls into your pool, and although a pool alarm is a great way to warn parents that an accident is taking place, it is much better to prevent the accident before it occurs.
There are a few precautions you can take to help ensure pool safety.
Make sure you pool is fenced in.
By fencing in your pool with a locked gate, you reduce the chance of someone sneaking in for a swim on a hot summer day, while at the same time preventing young wandering children potential access to a dangerous area.
Always have a life guard on duty.
Sometimes drowning victims can’t call out for help. It is important to remember this and remain vigilant. Pay extra special attention when children are playing around ladders and other areas where they could potentially hit their head.
It is also a wise idea to ensure all older children use and employ the “buddy” system, where one friend watches the other.
Make sure you pool cover is completely removed.
It should be made clear to children that they are not to walk on the pool cover in any way. As well, it is important that the pool cover be pulled back entirely as to prevent someone from swimming under it and potentially getting trapped.
Keep a first aid kit handy.
You never know when an accident will happen, so it’s a good idea to keep a first aid kit near your swimming pool at all times. You may want to also consider purchasing a waterproof pool phone, in case you need to call for help.
If you implement these pool safety precautions, you will not only lower your chance of potential accidents, but also increase your family fun factor by being stress free and prepared for summertime pool activity.