13 Ways to Stay Safe at the Pool this Summer
One of the best ways to cool off in the summer, whether you are a kid or an adult, is to take a dip in the pool. Whether you have a pool in your yard or you visit the neighborhood one, make sure you take measures to keep you and your family safe.
Water is beautiful, but it can also be dangerous if you are not careful. So to enjoy the water, follow these tips.
If you have a pool…
1. Make sure that it is supervised while in use. Supervised by an adult or teenager who is responsible. Keep your kids and their friends safe during summer play. Don’t leave them unattended even if they can swim, it only takes a second for something unexpected to happen.
2. Keep all electrical devices away from the pool. Electricity and water don’t mix. Make sure that all cords and machinery or electric tools are not in the vicinity of the pool where they can cause danger. And this includes phones – while they won’t electrocute you, they don’t usually survive many dips in the pool.
3. Keep the pool covered when not in use, to reduce the risk of someone falling in and drowning. I know this can be harder if you have an above ground pool, but even a solar cover can keep a small dog from drowning (and yes I know this from personal experience).
4. Drain the pool between uses if it is a quick set-up pools. Just like to cover this limits the chances of someone being in the pool when you are not around. This can also help to extend the life of your pool.
5. Post rules and enforce the rules. Don’t allow running on the pool deck or horseplay on the ladder steps. No rough play – aka no holding your sister/brother under the water. Make sure that the person who is supervising is willing and able to enforce the rules.
This is a cute sign that you can hang outside to display the pool rules.
6. Add a fence around the pool. A fence can keep neighbors and pets from gaining access to your pool. Some regulations say that the fence should be at least four feet high. You can also install alarms on the gate to alert you if anyone opens it. In most cases, you must a fence for your homeowners insurance policy.
If you are visiting a public pool or even just a neighbor’s pool…
7. Watch your kids. – To keep your kids safe, keep your eyes on them. It can be a great time to get a bright colored bathing suit that you can easily spot. Don’t depend on the lifeguard to see if something happens to them, and if you are at a neighbors house, there will not be a lifeguard, so you must stay vigilant. If you can’t locate your child, alert the lifeguard right away.
8. Wear sunscreen – Use waterproof sunscreen, like this one from SunBlocz, so you and your family are protected from the sun’s rays during your time in the pool. And make sure to re-apply per the package instructions – sunscreen is not a set it and forget it deal.
9. No diving in the pool because it can lead to head injuries, spinal injuries and even death. Unless there is a diving board and you or your child are experienced at swimming and diving, avoid it. And if you are like me where your dives end more as belly flops, you will want to avoid diving at all costs :).
10. Learn to swim. If you or your children are going to be spending time in or near the water they should learn to swim. It can save your life. We all know that people can drown in small amounts of water, and of course the risk is greater in a large public pool, that you child could be pushed into the water – so make sure they know the basics of swimming. How to Teach Your Baby to Swim by Douglas Doman is a great resource.
11. Learn CPR. Several years ago, when I was working for a dentist, we had to get certified in CPR. I have never updated the certification, but I sure am glad I have the knowledge available to me. It can help you save your kids or another child.
12. Don’t use equipment or toys in the pool that don’t belong there. I know as a kid, I was the worst, all the patio furniture at my dad’s apartment complex went into the pool, but in hind site, I realize the danger. If a device is not made for flotation, don’t count on it to save your life. Pool noodles are a great low cost versatile pool toy.
13. Wear a life vest. If you or your child can’t swim, a life vest will help protect them while playing in the water. Water wings can be a good alternative if you are going to be closely supervising your child, but a properly fitted life vest is the best choice. These vests are approved by the Coast Guard.
Spending time in the water should be fun. And, it will be as long as you stay safe.