Have Fun. Swim Safe.
APSP’S WATER SAFETY TIPS
The Associate of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) provides a great list of water safety tips for families and pool owners to keep in mind this season.
1. Use layers of Protection. Supervision is always your primary layer of protection, but as the study shows, 69% of the drowning incidents occurred when parental supervision failed and there were not other “back-up layers” in use.
2. Toys, tricycles and other playthings should be stored away from the pool area.
A favorite toy left near the water can be a very strong attraction to a child.
3. Never use the pool while, or after consuming alcohol or any drugs. Consult a doctor if taking any medication on a regular basis.
4. Learn safe diving. Diving should only be done off the diving board, and never off the deck surrounding the pool. Know the depth of the water prior to diving, and never dive into shallow water.
5. Fences and gates should meet local codes for safety, including self-closing and locking gates.
6. Floating pool alarm devices with remote alarms that sound in the home can alert you if a child falls into the pool.
7. Automatic, locking safety covers provide an impenetrable means of covering the pool and blocking access to water.
8. Never use glass containers around your pool.
9. Never run or horseplay around your pool.
10. Always have your safety rope in place and have the life ring and reach pool within easy reach inside your pool area.
11. Emergency procedures, including learning CPR, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, are skills that may save a life. The local YMCA/YWCA, the Red Cross and many hospitals offer classes. Also, ALWAYS keep a cordless or cellular phone by the pool when in use ( don’t go inside to answer the phone and leave a child in the pool). Remember: YOU are responsible for the safety of anyone who may be in or around your pool.
