Pool safety is extremely important for families with young children.
When the summer heat rolls in, pools offer a refreshing way for families to have fun and cool off. However, for families with young children, pool safety is always a top priority. Water is a fun but potentially dangerous environment, and accidents can happen quickly if the proper precautions aren’t taken.
Supervision is Key
The most important rule of pool safety is constant supervision. Children can get into trouble in the water in a matter of seconds, even if they know how to swim. Whether your child is floating in a pool, playing at the edge, or in the shallow end, never take your eyes off them. Always have an adult designated as the “water watcher” who can focus solely on the children in the pool. If you need to leave the area, make sure another adult takes over supervision.
Install Pool Barriers
A pool barrier is one of the most effective ways to prevent young children from gaining unsupervised access to the water. This barrier could be a fence, gate, or cover around the pool. The fence should be at least 4 feet high and should have a self-latching, self-closing gate that’s out of reach of small children. Pool covers and alarms are also great additions to provide extra layers of security.
Teach Children to Swim Early
Teaching your children to swim at an early age not only gives them confidence in the water but can also be a lifesaver in an emergency. Look for swim classes designed for young children, which focus on water safety and basic swimming skills. Even if they’re not ready to swim on their own, learning how to float or turn to the edge of the pool can be helpful skills in an emergency.
Use Life Jackets Appropriately
For young children who are still learning how to swim, life jackets and floatation devices can provide extra safety while in the pool. However, it’s crucial to choose the right kind of life jacket. Opt for U.S. Coast Guard-approved devices that are designed for children and always ensure they are properly fitted. While life jackets can provide extra buoyancy, they should not replace adult supervision.
Keep Pool Chemicals Out of Reach
Young children are naturally curious and might want to explore every corner of the pool area, including where pool chemicals are stored. Ensure that pool chemicals, such as chlorine, are stored in a secure location far from the reach of children. Always keep these substances in their original, labeled containers and lock up any storage areas that hold them.
Create & Teach Pool Rules
As soon as your children are old enough, start teaching them pool rules. These rules should include not running near the pool, no pushing others into the water, and always asking for help if they’re unsure about something. It’s essential for children to understand the boundaries of pool safety so they can enjoy the water responsibly.
Install a Pool Alarm
A pool alarm system is another effective safety measure for families with young children. These alarms detect when someone enters the pool or when there’s unusual movement in the water. Whether it’s a floating alarm or a door/window alarm, it will give you an added layer of protection in case your child enters the water unsupervised.
Regular Pool Maintenance
Maintaining the pool itself is also an essential part of safety. Ensure the pool is properly maintained with balanced chemicals, clean filters, and no dangerous debris. The pool area should also be clear of any obstacles that could cause accidents, like pool toys scattered on the ground or slippery surfaces around the pool.
Know What to Do in an Emergency
Even with all the proper precautions in place, accidents can still happen. It’s crucial to know what to do in an emergency. Be sure to learn CPR and basic first aid so you can act quickly if necessary. Familiarize yourself with the location of rescue equipment such as a pool pole, flotation device, or life ring, and make sure safety equipment is easily accessible.
Do You Have More Questions About Swimming Pools? Ask Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC
If you still have questions about how to build a brand new swimming pool, Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC is here to help you. At Sunrise Pools, we can build and install your pool, spa, or hot tub and provide you with pool chemicals, services, and more. If you have questions, feel free to give us a call at 410-349-3852. To see more from us and for tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.