Swimming Safety and Pool Security

Many drowning incidents involve swimming pools and spas. Drowning is a silent and sudden event, and Home Safety Council research found that many drowning deaths at home are related to swimming pools. Adopt the following guidelines to help keep your pool area safe.

Always practice constant adult supervision around any body of water. Older children should not be left in charge of younger children in the pool area.
Install four-sided fencing that isolates the pool from the home. Four-sided pool fencing is proven to be an effective drowning prevention intervention.
Position gate latches out of the reach of young children.
Never prop the gate open or disable the latch.
Clear debris, clutter and pool toys from the pool deck and adjoining pathways to prevent falls.
Keep a cordless, water resistant telephone in the pool area and post emergency numbers near the pool area.
Enroll non-swimmers in swimming lessons taught by a qualified instructor. Pediatricians recommend that children ages 5 and older learn how to swim.
Never swim alone. Even adults should always swim with a buddy.
Learn and practice the basic lifesaving techniques, including First Aid and CPR.
Keep poolside rescue equipment close to the pool area.