ABC’S of Pool Safety

Swimming is a great way to cool off during the summer months. Unfortunately, drowning is the number one killer of children under the age of five. According to Natalie Lane, Director of the ER Department at Children’s Hospital of Georgia, this statistic is even more alarming because young children are more likely to drown in a residential swimming pool than any other body of water. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents should avoid installing a swimming pool until children are over the age of five. However, if parents and caregivers will engage young children in water activities, be sure to follow the ABC’S of pool safety:

• Abide by the rules. Never leave children alone in or near a pool. There should always be an adult who can swim present at all times. In addition to a present adult, all children should be wearing a secure life vest. When finished, don’t forget to remove all pool toys and floats from the pool area that could attract children.
• Be prepared. Teach children how to swim as early as possible, or at least the basic water safety tips. Since an adult will be supervising the children during pool play, CPR and rescue breathing certification is recommended. If at any point during the day a child is missing, always check the pool area first.
• Childproof the pool. For residential pools, it’s very important to install a self-latching and self-closing fence around the pool area. Safety covers should also be placed over the water when the pool is not in use. Also, remember to keep a phone available near the pool in case of emergency.

Happy summer!

  

Excerpt from: medicalnewstoday.com