Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children between the ages of one and four. This is one reason it is imperative for children to be supervised around pools and taught water safety.
Pool Safety
A few simple precautions can be lifesavers such as:
- It is very important to secure a backyard swimming pool to avoid any drowning accidents. Building a fence circumferencing the entire swimming pool is a great way to add security to the pool. A self-closing/latching gate that is out of children’s reach and can be locked at all times is another safety measure that can be taken.
- Always keep tools and furniture away from the fence to avoid the ability of children climbing over the pool fence.
- Always keep lifesaving equipment close by,
- It is always advisable to keep the pool area clean and free from toys which may entice children to go and retrieve them.
- It is also a wise idea to keep a pool cover on the pool when it is not in use.
Life-Saving Devices
There are many life-saving devices that can be used in the case of an emergency. A safety ring with a rope or long pole and flutter boards can be used. Having a first aid kit on hand is important to enable those present to administer first aid. Life jackets are also a great life-saving device.
Supervising Children
Children should never be left alone around bodies of water. Even older children who are inexperienced should be supervised. Swimming aids can fail, and therefore, it is imperative to keep young children and inexperienced swimmers within arm’s reach and in full view. Some swimming aids can give children a false sense of security and may entice them to embark in dangerous activities while in the water.
Keeping Children Safe Around Water
There are many safety measures that can be taken which can be used to help prevent an accident in the water. Enrolling your children in swimming lessons is essential if your children are often around water. Young children and very inexperienced swimmers should wear a personal floating device or lifejacket for their own protection.
People supervising children or adults should take first aid and life-saving courses, so they are ready to assist in case of an emergency.
Avoiding horseplay in the water can also lead to safer swimming.
Swimming At The Beach
Some public and private beaches have lifeguards on duty. However, lifeguards should not be solely relied upon. Practicing safety while swimming is also the responsibility of any swimmer. There are certain hazards that can exist at the beach which are not present while swimming in a pool.
There is a lot to remember about water safety but reviewing information like this on a regular basis helps to jog the memory.