Pool Safety Tips

Pool Safety Tips

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Swimming is one of the most fun and refreshing things you can do on a hot summer day, but it also carries some significant danger (sadly, many children drown every year in residential pools). Be sure to take the time to think about how you can make your pool a safe place for your family and friends to be. We recommend taking the following steps:

1.Set some pool rules and enforce them. Is running on deck allowed? How much roughhousing is allowed in the pool? Discuss the rules with your family. Its also a good idea to write them up on a sign and post it in the pool area so they are there to be seen by all (including guests). Be sure to punish your children if they dont obey the rules.

2.Never allow children to swim unsupervised. If children are swimming in your pool, there should always be an adult outside with them. Many parents rely on the buddy system, thinking that two or more children will be safe because they can look after each other. This system can work in a pinch, but the only way for the children to be completely safe is for an adult to be watching over them at all times.

3.Enroll your children in swimming lessons. Never assume that your child is a good swimmer just because he or she spent a lot of time in the pool as a youngster. Nothing compares to professional swimming instruction. Children who attended swimming lessons are much less likely to be involved in a fatal swimming accident later in life.

4.Take a first aid refresher course. You may think that you know first aid, but the fact is that youre probably not as up-to-date as you should be. Most people understand the basics (mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, etc.) but are unable to recall the exact procedures when they find themselves facing the pressure of a real emergency situation.

5.Know your local laws. Take the time to find out whats legal in your area, with regards to pools. You may be required to install some kind of safety materials, such as a fence to prevent toddlers from stumbling into your pool.

6.Avoid alcohol and drugs. This applies to the adults much more than the children. Many parents like to crack open a bottle of wine and go for a late-night dip after the children are in bed. This isnt necessarily dangerous, but alcohol and swimming arent a good mix. You should probably stay out of the water if youve had more than a glass or two of wine. The same can be said if youve ingested any amount of drugs.


About the Author:
Barney Hope is aware that inground pools require pool safety rules especially for his grandchildren. He's thinking of looking at pool slides for the kids but supervision will be needed for them.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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