Child Pool Safety Tips

Along the Sunbelt, drowning is the number one cause of death in children under the age of 5. that is a staggering statistic especially when you keep in mind that most drownings can be avoided.  Each year 300 children die from a residential drowning.  2,000 additional kids are treated at the hospital for submersion or pool related injuries.  Supervision is the key to preventing these deaths and injuries.  There are also many useful products available to help you.

 

Putting a Fence Around Your Pool is not only Safer, It May Be the LAW!

Of course a fence or barrier is necessary around your pool.  Many states have laws requiring you to put up a fence.  If your pool is closely connected to your home and you are using your home as one of the enclosing walls it is vital to have alarms on those exterior doors that lead out to the pool area.  

The fence needs to be at least 4 feet high on all sides.  Inspect your fence to see if there are any places where a child could find a foot hold for climbing.  If you are using a vertical slatted fence then place the slats less than 4 inches apart to prevent the determined toddler from squeezing through. 

Add Extra Security By Purchasing Door Alarms

The door alarms on the house will quickly notify you is someone is opening one of the exterior doors.  This is vital.  If a toddler ever comes up missing from your home you should always check the pool first.  The alarms will let you know ahead of time if your child is going out the door.  They usually work with a keypad or switch that should be installed out of a child’s reach. 

Whether you choose an electric or battery operated device just make sure you check it often for proper working condition.  Some have the handy feature of allowing a key pass entry so adults can use the doors without constantly fussing with the alarm.  An alarm is an economical and proactive product that will definitely give you an added layer of protection.

Find Out About Alarms that Detect if Someone Falls in the Pool

There are also alarms that install to the side of the pool itself.  They are set to activate a high pitched noise of 85 decibels when the water has been breeched or is being displaced.  Most of these alarms can detect an object weighing 15 pounds or more.  This makes them not only helpful for children but for your pets as well.  The receiver can either be mounted in the home or you can choose a mobile unit to take with you. 

One nice feature is that they can be used along with your solar or pool cover and are adjustable to reduce their sensitivity if needed.  The average alarm costs around $300 which is pretty economical considering what they could save you.  The only downfall to these pool alarms is that they won’t alert you until someone is already in the water.  They are probably best used with the other safety methods mentioned. 

Never Leave a Swimmer Unattended

Obviously you need to supervise your children while they swim. This is the only way to be sure that they are safe.  Having a fence around your pool protects you and your family.  Even if you have a shallow wading pool it should be barricaded using some method. 

Many toddlers get hurt by reaching into the water to grab pool toys and then accidentally fall in.  Make it a rule in your home that all pool toys or flotation devices are to be removed after swimming.  Your pool should be equipped with a safety hook or safety flotation device just in case an emergency happens. 

Install a Phone Near the Pool for Pool Safety Emergencies

If an emergency does happen you will need a phone.  It probably is smart to have one installed in or around the pool area for this purpose and have 911 clearly written on it so even young callers can contact an ambulance.  Having the phone outside will ensure you won’t be tempted to run in the house to answer the phone if it rings. 

Pools are fun, but they can be deadly.  Teach your family and those that swim in your pool about proper pool safety, the buddy system and discourage any diving into the pool.  You want your pool to remain a fun recreational activity and not one filled with fear or dread.  By implementing safety features you will ensure that you are safe and that your pool security cannot be breeched.