Pool Safety Tips – Our friends at Goldfish Swim Schools of Metro Detroit have some great tips to remember around the pool all year long.
If you do not own a pool, chances are your child is friends with someone whose family does or otherwise has pool access. While people may view pools as a great place for family fun, keep in mind that they can also pose a serious safety threat. In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that from 1999 to 2010, nearly 14,000 Americans age 19 or younger drowned; 40 percent of those cases were among children between the ages of 1 and 4, and at least half of those deaths occurred in swimming pools.
Drowning is not always the violent, splashing call for help that most people expect. According to the CDC, about half of the approximately 750 children who drown each year will do so within 25 yards of an adult. And in 10 percent of those drownings, the adult will witness the child’s struggle with no idea that it is occurring.
Pool Safety Tips
Pool Safety Tips – The Pool Environment – It is important to do everything in your power to prevent unsupervised pool access. Installing fences, alarms, locks and covers can be lifesaving. The fence surrounding your pool should be at least 4 feet high to help prevent your child from climbing over it to get to the pool. In addition, its lock should be childproof. Also, be sure to childproof all the doors in the house that lead to the pool. Pool alarms can further help prevent tragedy. These alarms will alert you when anyone enters the pool outside of playtime. Prior to pool time, make sure your children know the rules and proper pool safety. Finally, keep toys away from the pool when it is not in use. Toys can entice young children to the pool.
Pool Safety Tips – Be Prepared – As much as parents do not want to think about the potential for tragedy, we must prepare for any and all circumstances. Consider having a throwable life preserver near the pool at all times, especially around novice swimmers. In addition, it is always a great idea to have a first aid kit on hand in case of emergencies, both water- and non-water-related. Lastly, learn CPR. Knowing you can save a life will give you great peace of mind when supervising children around the pool.
Pool Safety Tips – Swim Lessons – Swim lessons are not only great exercise for kids, but they also provide the chance to learn lifesaving skills. According to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88 percent among children between the ages of 1 and 4. Yet many kids still do not receive formal swimming or water safety training. Make sure your kids know the fundamentals of water safety by signing them up for a Jump Start Clinic at Goldfish Swim School. Jump Start Clinics are great for children of all ages and skill levels. The weeklong sessions include a 30-minute lesson at the same time and with the same instructor every day. By the end of just one week, you will be able to see a noticeable improvement in your child’s swimming abilities and knowledge. Jump Start Clinics are held throughout the summer and other select times during the year based on location.
Pool Safety Tips – Adult Superivsion – Whether just one child is in the water or three, it is vitally important to make sure at least one set of adult eyes is on them at all times. This also means that the adults should not be distracted. Put your cell phone away and forget about your to-do list, because your kids deserve your undivided attention, especially poolside. Bonus points if the supervisor is a strong swimmer with CPR certification. Remember, never leave your child unattended in or near the pool.
If you and your children follow these tips, you can ensure that your kids will experience a safe and fun pool time!
Pool Safety Tips – Goldifsh Jump Start Clinics – Learn more about Goldfish Swim School’s Jump Start Clinics at goldfishswimschool.com.
Find a Goldfish Swim School near you
Goldfish Swim School Birmingham (2388 Cole St, Birmingham, MI 48009, 248-644-1914)
Goldfish Swim School Canton (225 Sheldon Road, Canton Township, MI 48187, 248-596-1914)
Goldfish Swim School Clarkston (6340 Waldon Center Dr, Clarkston, MI 48346, 248-795-2252)
Goldfish Swim School Macomb (18377 Hall Road #1, Macomb, MI 48044, 248-596-1914)
Goldfish Swim School Rochester (550 South St, Rochester, MI 48307, 248-596-1914)
Goldfish Swim School Farmington Hills (22710 Haggerty Rd, Farmington Hills, MI 48335, 248-596-1914)
PHOTO CREDIT – Goldfish Swim Schools of Metro Detroit (with permission)
This Pool Safety Tips article is provided by Goldfish Swim Schools of Metro Detroit for Oakland County Moms.
