Summer is here, and that means it's time to hit the pool! As much fun as swimming can be, it's important to remember that pools can be dangerous for young children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 14. With that in mind, it's essential for parents to take steps to ensure their children's safety while they're enjoying the pool. Here are 11 child pool safety tips that every parent should know.
Always Supervise
The most important rule for child pool safety is to never leave children unattended in or near the pool. Even if children are good swimmers, accidents can happen in an instant. Always keep a close eye on children when they're in or around the water.
Teach Children to Swim
The best way to prevent drowning is to ensure that children know how to swim. Enroll your children in swimming lessons as early as possible. It's also a good idea for parents to learn CPR in case of an emergency.
Install Fences and Gates
To prevent young children from entering the pool area unsupervised, install a fence or barrier around the pool. The fence should be at least 4 feet high and have a self-latching gate. This will ensure that children can't get into the pool area without adult supervision.
Remove Toys from Pool Area
Toys left in or near the pool can be a temptation for children to jump in the water to retrieve them. Make sure to remove all toys from the pool area when not in use.
No Running or Horseplay
Running or horseplay around the pool can lead to accidents and injuries. Make sure to enforce rules against running or horseplay around the pool.
Don't Rely on Floatation Devices
While floatation devices can be helpful in teaching children to swim, they are not a substitute for adult supervision. Never rely solely on floatation devices to keep children safe in the pool.
Check the Drain Covers
Make sure that the drain covers in your pool are properly secured and in good condition. Broken or missing drain covers can create a suction that can trap a child underwater.
Have a Phone Nearby
Always have a phone nearby when children are swimming. In case of an emergency, you'll be able to call for help quickly.
Keep Chemicals Out of Reach
Pool chemicals can be dangerous if ingested. Make sure to keep pool chemicals out of reach of children.
Don't Let Children Swim Alone
Even if children are good swimmers, it's important for them to always swim with an adult present. Children should never swim alone, even in a shallow pool.
Learn CPR
In case of an emergency, knowing CPR can be a lifesaver. Take a CPR class to learn how to perform CPR on a child or infant.
Conclusion
Swimming is a fun and healthy activity for children, but it can also be dangerous. As a parent, it's important to take steps to ensure your child's safety in and around the pool. By following these 11 child pool safety tips, you can help prevent accidents and keep your child safe while they enjoy the water.
