If you’re planning on having your children play in a pool this summer, there are a few important safety guidelines that you need to remember.
Swimming pools are a great way to spend a summer day, but they’re not without their risks. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), swimming pool-related injuries are the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 14 years. That’s why it’s important to know the basics about pool safety before you bring your children into the water. In this blog, we outline nine important safety tips that you need to keep in mind if you’re planning on having your children swim in your pool this summer.
Supervision
Always supervise children when playing in or around the pool. Children should never go alone – always have someone around who understands the age level of pool play and can help should something happen.
Put Away Your Phone
There are a few reasons why it is important to put away your phone while supervising kids in the pool. First and foremost, it allows you to stay more connected with your children. Secondly, when you’re distracted on your phone you’re not there to guide or monitor their behavior which may lead to them not listening as closely as they should when they are swimming. Being present physically will ensure that all goes well without any disruptions!
Set Up Pool Alarms
Pool alarms detect and notify nearby adults of unwanted entry into a pool or pool area. A reliable and simple-to-use pool alarm is a must-have for any home with a pool, but especially for homes with children. Some of the features that pool alarms may include are sensors for detecting motion and/or heat, water levels, chlorine levels, heat loss, and more! They also come in different shapes and sizes, so they can be customized to fit any pool. Pool alarms serve as an important safeguard against potential harm to children while keeping everyone safe and comfy at home. If you want peace of mind when your kids are swimming this summer, then make sure to get a pool alarm!
Swim Lessons & Flotation Devices
Teach your children how to swim properly – even young children can learn basic skills like staying afloat and using their arms and legs to stay safe in the water. If they don’t know how to swim yet, enroll them in a swimming class before summer starts so that they’re ready for pool time. Young children should always wear swim goggles and floatation devices (such as lifejackets) at all times while swimming, even if they are not using the pool.
What To Do If They Get Nervous
Teach children to stick close to the side rails – if they become separated from your group, stay with the nearest railing until they are found or called back. Young children are more likely than older kids to become trapped in between pool coping and diving boards, or as they try to climb out from beneath/onto an inflatable
Always Check For Obstructions
Never jump into a pool without checking first for any obstructions or rocks in the water. Keep swimming areas clear of objects that could be blocking a child’s view or footing, such as overhanging tree branches and toys left on the ground by other children.
Invest In Four-Sided Fencing
When it comes to children safety, nothing is more important than having a four-sided isolation fence around your pool. A four-sided fence is made up of walls that are at least 3 feet tall. This type of isolation fence prevents small children from accessing the pool area and helps to prevent them from playing in or near the water. This helps to reduce the chances of accidents.
Security Cameras
Installing security cameras around your pool can be a great way to ensure the safety of your children. By watching footage from the cameras, you will be able to detect any inappropriate behavior and take appropriate action — such as contacting parental units or law enforcement. This peace of mind will allow you to relax while your children are swimming in the pool without worrying about their safety.
Weather Conditions
Stay aware of weather conditions; stay inside during lightning storms or heavy rain. Pool closures due to inclement weather can occur without warning. Don’t wait until you can see lightning, and don’t wait for rain. Lightning can strike as far away as 10 miles from rainfall, so when thunder roars, go inside! Postpone outdoor activities if possible.
It is important to remember that safety comes first when it comes to having a swim session in the pool. Being aware of the dangers and taking some precautionary measures can help keep everyone safe while enjoying their time in the water. We strongly believe that your kids will be safe around the pool with the proper precautions taken. You can also do some fun activities with them like going on a swimming trip or playing games in the water.
If you have any more safety tips, call Island Pool and Spa of Tenafly, NJ to speak with one of our professionals!