There are so many wonderful things to do in a backyard pool! It is fun and exciting, and even great exercise. There are many fun games to play and times for relaxation. However, everyone has a responsibility to keep themselves and everyone else safe in and around the pool. If you are an adult, there is no substitute for constant supervision, but here are some rules to teach you and your family and friends to be safe at your pool.
10 Pool Safety Rules to Abide by This Summer
- Never swim alone and make sure everyone knows how to swim.
- Even if you think you or your kids are excellent swimmers, you never know when someone might need help.
- Wear sunscreen.
- A severe sunburn is no way to end a day at the pool.
- No running!
- Really! You don’t want to slip and fall either on the concrete or into the pool. Scraped knees can end the day.
- Pick up and put away your toys.
- As much fun as toys are in the pool, they are a tripping hazard on the pool deck.
- Have a fence that is at least 4’ tall and get an alarm for the gates.
- Most cities and counties have ordinances that require a fence with self-closing and latching gates. Alarms can be easily added to alert you when someone enters the yard, as well as alarms for when someone (or something) falls in the pool. Check with your local codes department and if you live somewhere that does not require a fence, strongly consider an automatic pool cover. The idea is to keep anyone or anything that has not been invited OUT of your pool.
- Keep anything that can be used as a step stool to climb the fence away from the fence.
- That means storing large flower pots, patio furniture, and other climbable items away from the outside perimeter.
- Never leave the pool cover partially closed.
- A pet or child can be easily trapped beneath it.
- Always enter the pool feet first.
- Whether you are jumping off the side or a diving board or coming down a slide, the safest way to enter a pool is feet first. A deep dive, even in a pool that is deep at one end, can result in a serious head or neck injury that can lead to paralysis or death.
- Learn CPR and keep rescue equipment by the pool.
- The CPR course is readily available, and it is a skill that every responsible adult should consider. And rescue equipment is not a toy. You should have a pool safety ring or tube and a life hook readily available.
- Keep a cell phone or house phone nearby.
- That way you will not leave the pool unattended to answer the phone.
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