Dive into Pool Safety

Who says there ain't no cure for the summertime blues? You'll be hard-pressed to find a child who doesn't enjoy spending time by the pool. For most families, it's the highlight of the summer -- both fun and affordable. While it's great that you and your children are looking forward to a summer spent poolside, it's always important to remember safety first. Always make sure you adhere to these safety guidelines during swimming time. Never leave children unsupervised in or even near the pool. Remember, water wings, rafts, floaties, noodles and other flotation devices are no substitute for adult supervision. If possible, it's ideal to have an adult who knows CPR in the vicinity. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents practice touch supervision with children under 5.


That means an adult should always within an arm's length of younger children at all times. It goes without saying that if you have younger children and a pool - you should have a pool fence. Once pool time is over, secure the fence. When you're finished with the pool, remove all toys so that children are not tempted to reach for them. Never permit running or horseplay outside of the pool. Make certain that children are never around drains, pipes or any other openings in the pool. When you're supervising kids in the pool, always keep a phone nearby. This will ensure you never need to walk away. Of course, it's always important to make sure your children have adequate sunscreen. Look for waterproof brands that have an SPF of at least 15 to 30. Reapply frequently. Keep an eye on how much sun your child is getting.