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Keeping Summer Safe: Pool and Spa Safety Tips Thumbnail

Keeping Summer Safe: Pool and Spa Safety Tips

Swimming in the backyard pool can bring joy during the summer months, but it's essential to recognize the potential risks it poses, particularly for children. Drowning claims the lives of nearly 4,000 individuals annually in the United States alone, making it the foremost cause of preventable death among children aged 1 to 4.1,2

To ensure the safety of your children and their friends during the swimming season, here are seven straightforward guidelines to follow if you own a pool or spa.

1. Adult Supervision

Never leave children unattended while they are using the pool. As any responsible parent understands, it takes mere moments for children to find themselves in perilous circumstances. Be sure to stay attentive at all times.

2. Keep a Life Ring Nearby

Ensure you have a readily accessible pool rescue device that can swiftly pull someone out of the water if needed. Regularly inspect the device to ensure it is in optimal condition and ready for immediate use.

3. Fence and Alarms

Take necessary precautions to protect your pool by installing a sturdy fence around it. Consider enhancing the security measures further by adding an alarm system that can alert you to any unauthorized access or use of the pool. These safety measures can help ensure the pool remains secure and reduce the risk of accidents.

4. Rope or Float Line

Install clear and visible markers that clearly distinguish between the shallow and deep ends of the pool. These markers serve as visual reminders for young children, signaling them not to cross into the deeper areas. This helps promote safety and prevents children from inadvertently venturing into areas where they may be at risk.

5. Lock Your Hot Tub Cover

Due to their height limitations, young children may not be able to stand up in a hot tub and may not fully comprehend the rapid effects of heated water, which can lead to dehydration and other accidents. It is crucial to closely supervise children in hot tubs and ensure they understand the potential risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

6. Safely Store All Pool Chemicals

The chemicals used in pool maintenance pose risks not only to children but also to adults. It is vital to store these chemicals in a secure area and handle them with proper care. Find a designated safe storage space where they can be kept out of reach of children and follow the recommended guidelines for their handling to minimize any potential hazards.

7. Cover Pool Drains

Suction entrapment is a serious risk that can result in fatal accidents. Ensure that all drains in your pool or hot tub are correctly installed with certified covers. Regularly inspect the covers to verify they are undamaged and functioning properly.

By following these straightforward steps, you can enhance the safety of your pool or hot tub without compromising the enjoyment and happiness they provide.

  1. https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fsafechild%2Fdrowning%2Findex.html https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/safe-swimming-week/feature.html
  2. The information in this material is not intended as legal advice. Please consult legal or insurance professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.