Pools are great spots to beat the heat and enjoy some exercise. They’re also ideal spots for children to socialize with their friends away from screens.
As inviting as pools can be, it is important that swimmers recognize that safety is paramount, particularly for those who have the benefit of backyard pools.
Install barriers: Barriers like tall, self-latching fences and gates (with vertical panels not easily scaled) can deter unmonitored entry into a pool area. Such safety precautions are mandatory in many towns and cities, even if there is a separate fence around the perimeter of the yard.
Close supervision: Lifeguards are stationed at public pools to keep careful watch of swimmers. The role of lifeguard at pools on private properties must be filled by responsible adults. Children should never be allowed to swim without someone monitoring the water at all times. Swimmers should be asked to exit the pool in the event the adult monitoring the pool needs to head indoors for a minute or if the adult’s attention is pulled elsewhere while outside.
Learn to swim: Enroll children in swim lessons so they can learn the proper techniques. Until kids’ swimming skills are strong, it may be advisable for them to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket when in the water.
Dive carefully: Swimmers should always enter the pool feet-first, unless there is a diving board and a safe diving depth.
Swimming pool safety is vital to keep everyone out of harm’s way.
