Swimming Pool Safety Tips for Parents and Kids
Backyard swimming pools are the pinnacle of summer fun.
They’re also deadly.
While fatal pool drownings are on the decline, more than 350 children die in swimming pools yearly. It only takes a second for a child to slip away and into danger, which is why it’s so important that families practice pool safety.
If you have a backyard pool, here’s what you need to know about enjoying it safely.
Securing a Backyard Pool
When buying a home with a swimming pool or installing a new pool, take these steps to make it kid-safe:
- Install pool fencing at least four feet high with self-latching and childproof gates.
- Pool safety covers are another option. Safety covers are designed to support a person’s weight and are different from normal pool covers.
- Use pool alarms for added safety. There are several types of pool alarms available.
- Keep swimming pools in good repair. In addition to leaks and cracks, some pools can collapse from damage.
Swimming Skills for Kids
Children are safer when they know how to swim. Here’s what parents need to know about teaching kids swimming skills:
- Kids are ready to start swimming lessons around age four or five, experts suggest.
- Swimming skills every child should have included getting in and out safely, turning around, floating, and breathing.
- Children should also learn how to tread water and swim moderate distances.
Pool Safety Rules for Parents and Kids
No matter a child’s swimming ability, there are some rules every family should follow when it comes to backyard pools:
- Even strong swimmers shouldn’t swim alone. Always supervise children in and around water.
- Don’t treat floatable toys as safety devices. Instead, use life jackets for inexperienced swimmers.
- Keep pool toys out of sight when not in use, so children aren’t tempted to enter the pool area.
What to Do in a Swimming Emergency
Finally, parents should understand what to do in a swimming pool emergency. Here’s how to respond if your child has an accident in your backyard pool:
- Learn how to recognize the signs of drowning.
- Know how to rescue a drowning person without putting yourself in danger safely.
- All parents should know how to perform CPR. A variety of organizations offer CPR training.
- Always seek medical help after a swimming accident to prevent dry drowning and other complications.
Swimming may seem like harmless summer fun — and done safely, it is! However, backyard pools are also a hidden danger in your home. Make sure you’re taking the proper steps to keep your children safe around backyard pools so you can prevent a tragedy.
Guest Blogger: Alex Robbins
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