The recent warm weather makes me realize how rapidly summer
is approaching. It’s time to dust off those BBQ’s and open the pools.
Millions of people enjoy swimming in pools each summer in
the United States. Unfortunately, on
average two hundred people die each year in swimming pool related
accidents.
Personally, I have represented the family of a young child
that drowned in a neighbor’s swimming pool.
The devastation that this child’s family felt is unimaginable. Adding to the family’s grief was the fact
that their son’s death was completely avoidable. There are simple solutions to
keep children safe while enjoying swimming pools. Here are five safety measures that every pool
owner should consider:
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Make sure that your pool is completely enclosed with
a fence, even if your town does not require it. While most townships call for a
person’s property to be fenced when
there is a pool in the yard, they don’t all require an additional fence around
the pool. Fencing the pool area provides
an extra layer of security and safety. Make sure there are no gaps in the
fencing, and the gates to the pool should be self-closing and lock.
-
While swimming, make sure you keep everyone in
your pool under active supervision. Did you know that it is common for drowning
deaths to occur while parents are actually with their children at the pool. It
is not enough to be there. Failure to keep a watchful eye on your children
while they are swimming can have disastrous consequences. Bear in mind that it
may only take a few seconds for a drowning death to occur. This is especially
true at parties or summer BBQ’s where there can be many distractions. Always keep
your eyes on your pool.
-
Make sure everyone in your family, including
caregivers, knows how to swim. It’s never too early to teach your children how
to swim and to understand the dangers of water. The sooner your child learns to
swim, the safer he or she will be around water.
-
Have appropriate safety equipment at your pool,
including flotation devices. A course in CPR is a good idea for parents. In
addition, make sure that your pool water is clear and clean while open, and
properly covered in winter. Murky water
can be difficult to navigate should someone accidentally fall into a dirty
pool.
-
Explain the dangers of the swimming pool to your
children. Make it clear that they are not allowed into the pool area without
supervision. Establish strict rules for the use of the pool, such as no running
near the pool and no diving in shallow areas.
Authored by: Steven Palermo
