Tip #1: Stay close, be alert, and watch children in and around the pool.
Having a pool comes with great responsibility. Even if you don’t have kids, your backyard has probably been the gathering spot for many backyard bashes.
- To avoid a child getting stuck, keep children away from pool drains and pipes.
- Always keep an eye on your child when he or she is near the water.
- Keep a phone near when you and your family use the pool.
- If a child is missing, check the pool first.
- Share these tips with family, friends, and your neighbors.
Tip #2: Learn and practice water safety skills.
Though some of this information may seem intuitive, it’s vital to go through these next few steps. A pool can quickly become a scene for life or death and you will want to be prepared.
- First, you must learn to swim. Then, teach your child how to swim.
- Learn CPR for children and adults. Make sure those skills are updated regularly.
- Know basic life-saving skills so that you can help in a pool emergency.
Tip #3: Install safe and appropriate equipment for your pool.
It’s necessary to make sure your pool is always in working condition, but other safety measures should be considered.
- Install a fence around the pool and spa that has self-latching gates.
- Use a lockable safety cover on your spa.
- Install pool and gate alarms to alert the household when a child goes near the water.
- Ensure that your pool and spa is using compliant drain covers.
- Keep your pool and spa covers in good condition.
Tip #4: Don’t leave objects that might attract a child near the pool or pool area.
It’s hard to constantly keep watch over children, especially during a summertime pool party. To ensure their safety, here are a few extra things to consider.
- Keep the gate to the pool area closed at all times.
- Don’t rely on “floaties” or swimming lessons. Children are never 100% “water safe.”
Pools can be a fun refuge during the hot summer months, but it is important to remember the danger a pool can pose when owners are careless. For more tips to ensure the safety of your backyard, visit PoolSafely.gov.