Whenever children are in or near water, there should always be competent adult supervision nearby. Never assume that flotation devices will suffice - there is no substitute for constant adult supervision. Water is quite a draw to small children, so adults should be watchful at all times around any water element, even when swimming is not on the agenda. Even a child that has participated in swimming lessons needs adult supervision. If you must leave the pool area, take your children with you or assign another adult with the responsibility.

2. Know How to Swim
 

Always ask a potential user "can you/your child swim?" Local health clubs, community health organizations, the American Red Cross and the YMCA are all great resources for swimming classes and swimming pool safety. For help finding a certified swim instructor in your area, connect ot www.clubswim.com, or consult your phone book.
 

3. Install Proper Signage
 

It is important to display safety rules and review  them with your guests prior to allowing them to enter your pool. If you do not have safety signs and warning labels, we can assist you in acquiring the appropriate signage to go along with your pool.

 

4. Layers of Protection
 

The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) endorses a concept known as "Layers of Protection". It involves equipping the pool or spa area with several safety devices in order to delay unsupervised access. Following are some options for protecting children and preventing accidents:

a) Fencing: Isolate the swimming pool with a minimum four-foot-high enclosure.

b) Safety Covers: An impenetrable covering that completely covers the pool or spa will prevent access to the water when there is no supervision.

c) Alarms: Alarms are available for doors, fences, in pools, and as a clip-on for children. Alarms detect unwanted entrances to your pool or spa.

d) Rope & Float Line: Place these across the pool to alert swimmers to the separation of the deep end from the shallow edn of the pool.

e) Rescue Equipment: Equipment such as a life ring and shepherd's hook should be placed near the pool in an easily accessible spot. These devices are used to pull someone from the pool to safety.

f) Posted Emergency Information: Post all CPR, other emergency information, and warning signs, as well as the emergency telephone number - 911 - near the pool or spa.

g) Outside Telephone: Be sure to have a telephone in case you need to call for help. 

h) First Aid Kit: Having a first aid kit nearby is always a good idea to keep in a safe and convenient locations. Periodically check to make sure the kit is well stocked with all the essentials.

i) Sunscreen: Choose the level of protection that's right for you and use it! Even on cooler, cloudy days, the sun's ultraviolet rays can burn and damage skin cells.

j) Cleaners, Chemicals and Maintenance: All cleaning and maintenance supplies should be kept in a locked storage area, away from children and pets. Always check supply labels for proper storage requirements and expiration dates.
 

5. Ensure that your pool is compliant with all laws (including new ones)
 

New laws such as the Virginia Graeme Baker Act, passed in 2008, require modifications to existing pools in order to remain both safe and legally compliant. Not only are severe financial penalties possible for overlooking these types of laws, but ignoring regulations can also be exremely dangerous to swimmers. 
 

6. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
 

When you gather around the pool or any body of water, don't add anything to the mix that might impair reaction time or decision making ability - such as alcohol or drugs. Anything that can cause sleepiness, drowsiness, raise or lower blood pressure, or impair thinking should be avoided when you plan to be in or around any body of water. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect a person's judgement and increase the risk of injury around the water.

 

An excellent web site for children that focuses on water safety is www.SplashZoneUSA.com. It's an entertaining and educational site promoting water safety first. Visit the site with your children, enjoy the games, and teach them the importance of pool safety.

 

Happy Swimming!!!