Summer Pool Safety Tips

As the kids head to the pool this summer, it is time to review our pool safety tips. We use our apartment complex pool. It tends to get crowded as the heat cranks up over the summer months. It is important to plan ahead and know what to do in case of an emergency.

Keep children under active supervision at all times. Stay in arm’s reach of young kids. Designate a responsible person to watch the water when people are in the pool—never allow anyone to swim alone. Have young or inexperienced swimmers wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

Questions To Ask Yourself

Is there a lifeguard at the pool or spa to watch children and adults?

Are you watching your own child or children when they are in or around the water?

Are there water safety rules posted in a visible area for adults and children to review?

Is there sufficient staff to monitor the pool or spa when it’s in heavy use?

Is there a charged phone close by at all times?

Watch out for the "dangerous too's"—too tired, too cold, too much sun, too much strenuous activity. Get out of the water immediately if any of these situations occur.

Do not use air-filled swimming aids as a substitute for approved life vests.

Enroll your children in a water safety course and/or swimming classes

Don't leave toys in the water. Toys can lure a child into the pool.

Stay off the main drain. Do not sit or place any part of your body on the main drain. The suction from the pump could trap you underwater and cause serious injury or death.

Use common sense regarding food and beverages while swimming.

Don't assume young children will use good judgment and caution around the water. Children must be constantly reminded to walk slowly in the pool area and only to enter the water with you.

Watch the weather: Know local weather conditions and prepare for electrical storms. Because water conducts electricity, stop swimming as soon as you see or hear a storm.

Parents and anyone supervising children should know cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid. Post CPR instructions in your pool area.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, REMEMBER TO CHECK—CALL—CARE.

Check the injured person.

Call 911.

Care for the person until help arrives.