A Guest Post by Kaitlin who blogs at An Apple Per Day
When it comes to keeping kids safe in and around the water, the general rule of thumb is “layers of protection.” In other words, the old saying, “Less is more,” definitely does not apply when it comes to kids and water safety. Making sure that all of the basics are covered from the inside (of the house) outward to the pool is one of the best ways to keep kids and their friends enjoying the pool all season long.
{Picture Source – Creative Commons}
Step 1: From the Inside Out
Pool safety actually begins inside the house, in the form of door alarms. For households with babies and/or toddlers, or any child who is not able to understand the potential risks that a pool presents, door (and window) alarms are a valuable addition to any pool safety plan. When a door seal is broken, an alarm will sound, alerting adults within earshot. These inexpensive add-ons to any door leading to the outside pool area are easy to install and generally only require a battery or two to operate. Be sure to regularly check that the alarms are operating correctly.
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Step 2: Outside Barriers
A physical barrier in the form of a fence that separates the pool from the rest of the yard, also known as a “playpen” fence, is ideal for keeping kids safe. These fences, which enclose the pool and pool deck area, are especially important for households with babies and toddlers, who are too young to understand the inherent risks that a swimming pool presents. Playpen fences are generally made of metal or iron, at least five feet tall and feature a locking gate. While many states require secure fences with self-closing gates that enclose a backyard, the addition of a playpen-style fence adds another layer of protection and allows young children to safely enjoy a backyard without having access to the pool.
Step 3: The Right Equipment
When it comes to safety equipment in the pool area itself, a few simple items, strategically placed within reach of the pool deck are invaluable and easily accessed by kids and adults alike. Keep these items within reach at all times:
Cordless telephone or cell phone
Lifesaving ring
Long pole (the pool brush or skimmer doubles nicely)
Waterproof first-aid kit with anti-bacterial ointment, Band-Aids, etc., which can be accessed without leaving the pool area
Sunscreen
Step 4: Pools Rule!
One easy way to make sure that everyone is informed is to post a “Pool Rules” board within reading distance of the pool. An inexpensive white board works perfectly, and can be re-written or adjusted as needed. Lean the board up against the pool fence and make sure that guests, especially younger children, have read and understand your rules. Depending on the age range of children who use your pool, these rules can get you started:
1. No running on pool deck
2. No glass or food near the pool
3. One person on the slide/diving board at a time
4. Have fun!
Step Five: Educate!
One universal layer of protection for all ages is education. In fact, even babies and toddlers can be taught lifesaving skills that can make the difference if they inadvertently fall into a pool. Supervising adults, including older teens, should be certified in CPR. Check online for classes, which children as young as nine may enroll in.
Swimming instruction is perhaps the best way for a person, even a young child, to stay safe in the water. Take advantage of seasonal swim lessons that might be offered in your community and be sure to ask your kids’ friends if they can swim before being allowed in the pool.
Don’t forget: Nothing beats supervision to make sure the pool area stays safe and fun for all!
Kaitlin Gardner started AnApplePerDay.com to further her passion for a family friendly, green living lifestyle. She is married to her college sweetheart and lives in Pennsylvania. She and her husband enjoy going for long hikes, to get out and enjoy nature. She is working on her first book about ways to live an eco-friendly, healthy, natural life.