2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-22 03:30
Summer is the time of year when swimmers of all ages take over residential and public pools. Let's take a few minutes to brush up on our security knowledge.
Backyard pools provide many hours of summer fun, but they can also be dangerous. Owners of residential pools or hot tubs are responsible for their safe use. Most children who drown in a swimming pool have escaped the vigilance of their supervisor, if only for a second. These are mainly young children who access a pool whose barrier does not close or lock automatically.
Simple steps to keep the pool safe
- Erection a self-closing or self-locking fence; keep gate closed and restrict access at all times. Consult the municipal fencing by-law.
- Establish rules on the use of the pool, for example: always swim with a buddy, children are always accompanied by an adult, no glass containers are allowed near the pool.
- Very few residential poolsallow safe diving; swimmers should always enter the water with their feet.
- Keep buoys, a working phone and a first aid kit in an easily accessible place.
- Create a plan of action that includes adult supervision, an emergency signal, safety equipment, and emergency procedures.
- Remove toys and debris from the edge of the pool.
- Do not consume alcohol or drugs in or near the pool.
- Portable pools designed for toddlers should be emptied after each use. Ladders and steps in above ground pools should be out of reach when not in use.
- Water temperature in hot tubs should not exceed 104ºF or 40ºC. In addition, these are not recommended for pregnant women, toddlers and newborns.
Never leave a child unattended
Not even for a second! Active adult supervision is of the utmost importance
- Individuals who cannot swim well or at all should wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD), but this measure does not replace the supervision of an adult swimmer or a lifeguard.
- Enroll your children in Red Cross swimming lessons.
- Adults who cannot swim well should also take swimming and first aid lessons.
- Bring yourchildren with you if you must leave the pool for any reason.
Choose the best time of day
- Avoid swimming at night or in stormy weather.
- The best time to swim is during the day. Do not swim if there is thunder or lightning.
- Use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15, even on overcast days, and apply it every three to four hours.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and, whenever possible, light clothing that covers the skin.
For more information about the Red Cross Swim program, residents can call 1-877-356-3226. She can also visit the Swimming and Water Safety section of their website.
