Now that summer is here I believe this is important enough to reprint. We all need to cool off in this heat. Let’s all be sure to stay safe at the same time.
When people have a pool party, they think about the food the music and even the mosquitoes but we forget about basic safety in and around the pool.
- Keep a cell phone and a first aid kit where it can be easily accessed near the pool.
- Have a parent or even hire a babysitter (preferably one trained in CPR and first aid) to act as a pool monitor, especially if there are going to be a lot of children. Keep in mind that many adults don’t know how to swim either. You are the pool owner. You set the rules, so don’t be afraid to ask.
- Don’t allow children or adults run and horseplay around the pool. A slip and fall can be enough to cause serious injury.
- Make sure that all electrical cords are a safe distance from the pool area. Watch out for where the grills or barbeques are in relation to the pool. The cement around a pool along with suntan lotion and big beach towels can be dangerous items around open flames.
- Keep large floats out of the pool as they can obstruct the view of the pool.
- Don’t allow diving in the pool. People can misjudge and suffer serious and lasting head and neck injuries.
- When the pool is not in use, set a pool alarm or lock the gate to avoid anyone using your pool without supervision.
- Make sure that all pool chemicals are always secured.
- If a storm starts coming in, get everyone out of the pool. It can be hazardous to swim while it is lightening outside.
- Check your pool drain cover. Make sure it’s one of the new caps so that children can’t get stuck. The drain is powerful and could hold a child underwater (check with your pool supplier).
- Have your pool lights checked to see if there is any exposed wires or rust.
- Check your pool house and check all wiring. Also, check for leaks as it was a cold winter.
- You should install a four-sided fence around the pool at least four feet high with a childproof gate lock.
- People think that if you equip your child with arm floats that all is good. NO! You should still watch your child at all times. Floats are only to help with swimming, not to be used as a flotation device.
- There are thousands of injuries and deaths caused by complacency regarding pool safety. Don’t become part of the statistic.
- If at all possible, enroll your child into a formal swimming class. This will give some peace of mind.
- Enjoy good friends, good food, music and laughter. Summer is here and gone so quickly. Please do it safely.
By: Jim Doyle, owner of Madison Security Group
203 Us Highway 31 S, Athens, AL 35611
