August is Drowning Impact Awareness Month. It began in August 2004 with Phoenix Children’s Hospital and is now the largest collaborative water safety effort in the state of Arizona. June, July, and August are peak times for child drownings in Arizona and back-to-school distractions in August make it a high-risk month for child drowning.
Drowning prevention is the cure. To prevent child drowning, follow the ABC’s of Water Safety: active Adult supervision when children have access to water; Barriers between children and water; and Classes like CPR and swimming lessons and Coast Guard-approved life vests for new and beginner swimmers.
While owning a pool can provide entertainment and relaxation for kids and adults, it also comes with a lot of responsibility and the risk of a drowning. Below are 5 ways you can childproof your pool so you can stay worry-free all summer:
1-Block Access
The best way to ensure pool safety is to block access with barriers. One way to do this is with a fence. Some communities require that your pool be surrounded by a fence with a self-closing lockable gate. Another option is an automatic cover. With the flip of a switch, an automatic safety cover will create a barrier over your pool that no child can penetrate!
2-Keep Pool Equipment and Chemicals Locked Away
Cover your pool equipment behind sturdy fencing and store your pool chemicals such as chlorine out of reach of children. Chemicals should never be left out in the open in case a child was to inadvertently drink or possibly even burn themselves.
4-Swimming Lessons
Swimming lessons are a great option for young kids. Participation in formal swimming lessons is associated with an 88% reduction in the risk of drowning in 1-to-4-year-old children. For children of all ages, you should look for programs that have experienced and qualified instructors; teach good safety habits in, on, and near water; teach what to do if they end up in the water unexpectedly; let you watch a class to see first-hand if it is right for your child, and require multiple sessions.
5-Educate Family and Friends
Pool safety is not confined to one single activity. Have a conversation with adults about supervising the pool when children are around and inform children of the dangers of their pool when they swim unattended. This will help ease your mind and keep your summer worry free!
CLICK HERE for 3 Questions to Ask When Buying a Home with a Pool
