Tips for Keeping Your Kids Safe in the Pool
As we approach the hot summer months, there's no better way to beat the heat than to go for a swim. But before you go, we're bringing you tips on how to keep your kids safe in the pool this summer. According to the CDC, about one in five drowning deaths are children 14 and younger. For every child who dies from drowning, another five are treated at the emergency room for submersion injuries.
To keep kids safe, be sure to follow these pool safety tips:
- Always supervise your children when they are in the pool. There should be an adult watching children in the pool at all times, no exceptions. Drowning can happen in a matter of moments, so don't turn your back or run in the house to grab something.
- Teach children how to swim. Make sure your kids feel comfortable in the water by teaching them how to swim. Many community swimming pools offer lessons by trained professionals.
- Learn CPR. If an incident is to occur, you should be prepared to administer CPR. When waiting for the paramedics to arrive, CPR could mean the difference between life and death. Register for a CPR class in your area from the American Red Cross.
- Keep your pool safe. If you have a pool in your backyard, be sure that it's up to date on safety regulations:
- All pools should have a fence around the perimeter to prevent access from unsupervised children (and self-latching gates will further help keep the pool only in reach of adults)
- The CDC recommend installing VGB-Compliant Drain Covers, so a child cannot become trapped underwater
- Make sure drain covers are not broken or faulty
- Have your pool inspected by a trained inspector to ensure that it is has all the proper safety measures to keep your children safe
- Learn the signs of 'secondary drowning.' This is the term given when someone breathes in small amounts of water during a struggle, triggering airway muscles to spasm and making breathing difficult even after they're out of the water.
Ensure that your children have a fun summer in the sun by keeping the pool a safe place to be. To learn more about pool safety, visit www.poolsafely.gov.
