In the hot summer months, it is always a treat to enjoy the sun by a pool for refreshing dips in the water. As we welcome hot weather, remember to take some steps to ensure a safe environment poolside for all to enjoy.
Make water safety mandatory in any pool adventure: learn to swim, secure your pool and always watch kids closely.
Make water safety mandatory in any pool adventure: learn to swim, secure your pool and always watch kids closely.
Here are simple steps you can follow to secure your pool:
Also, download our free First Aid app to have handy resources at your fingertips should a poolside emergency occur!
- Fence it: Build a four-sided fence that has a self-closing and self-latching gate; keep the gate closed with restricted access at all times. The home should not open directly into the pool area. Refer to your municipal bylaws for fencing requirements.
- Cover it: Install a cover with a lock on your hot tub and/or small backyard pool.
- Empty it: Small on-ground portable or kiddie pools should be emptied when not in use. Above-ground pools should have the ladder or steps removed when not in use.
- Enforce it: Establish pool rules. These can include: swim with a buddy, children must have an adult with them at all times, and no glass containers around the pool. Few backyard pools are safe for diving - swimmers should always enter the water feet-first. Keep the deck clear of toys and debris.
- Have an Action Plan: Establish emergency procedures including adult supervision, an emergency signal, readily accessible safety equipment such as reaching or throwing assists, a working phone and first aid kit.
- Select a back-up person. If you need a break, select another Designated Water Watcher to replace you before you leave the area. For instance you may need a break to check on dinner, etc. Do not use alcohol or drugs in or around the pool.
- Lifejackets or PFDs should be worn by weak or non-swimmers, but they are not substitutes for supervision by an adult with good swimming skills, or a lifeguard.
- Enroll your children in Red Cross swimming lessons.
- Adults who are weak swimmers should also take lessons, and have first aid training.
- Take your children with you if you have to leave the pool area for any reason.
- The best time to swim is during the daytime. If there is thunder or lightning, stay out of the pool.
- Be Sun Smart - Use sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 even on cloudy days, and reapply every 3-4 hours. Wear a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and light clothing to cover your skin whenever possible.
Also, download our free First Aid app to have handy resources at your fingertips should a poolside emergency occur!
