For many families, having a swimming pool is the ultimate backyard luxury. Kids can spend endless hours splashing and playing in the cool water on hot summer days. However, it’s crucial to make pool safety a top priority when children are involved. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for kids ages 1-4, and it’s the second leading cause for kids under 14. With some basic precautions, you can ensure your kids have a safe and fun time in the pool this summer.
Install Proper Pool Fencing and Gates
One of the most important safety measures is installing a childproof pool fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Look for a fence at least 4 feet high with no foot or handholds for little climbers. Completely separating the pool area from the house and yard will prevent kids from wandering into the pool area unsupervised. Many cities and towns also have ordinances requiring certain pool fencing standards.
Establish Supervision Rules
Supervision is key for water safety. Establish clear adult supervision rules like designating a “water watcher” to monitor the pool at all times when kids are swimming. The water watcher should not be reading, texting, or otherwise distracted. Take turns serving as the water watcher to avoid lapses in supervision. Kids should never be left unattended in or near the pool, even for a moment.
Choose Age-Appropriate Pool Depths
For young kids and new swimmers, stick to shallow wading pools or the shallowest area of the pool. The water should only come up to the child’s chest so they can touch the bottom and get air. Older kids who are stronger swimmers may be able to handle deeper pool areas with adult supervision. Clearly mark pool depths and discuss them with your kids.
Teach Pool Rules and Safety Basics
Go over pool rules with your kids and enforce them consistently. Rules like no running on the pool deck, no pushing or dunking others, and no swimming without an adult present can prevent many accidents. You should also teach kids about using pool safety equipment properly and what to do if they need help in the water.
Enroll Kids in Swim Lessons
Formal swim lessons can teach kids essential water survival skills like floating, treading water, and getting in and out of the pool safely. Lessons instill a healthy respect for the water while building confidence. Many lessons also cover safety topics like recognizing an emergency and calling for help. The sooner kids start lessons, the better.
Use Proper Safety Equipment
Keeping pool safety equipment like life jackets, life rings, and a shepherd’s hook nearby can save a life in an emergency. Properly fitted life jackets are essential for young kids and inexperienced swimmers. A life ring with a rope can allow you to extend your reach to someone in trouble. And a long pole like a shepherd’s hook lets you pull someone in without entering the water yourself.
Know How to Respond to Emergencies
It’s important to be prepared for the worst-case scenario of a pool emergency. Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills. Have rescue equipment and emergency instructions clearly posted. Keep emergency numbers in an accessible location. Knowing how to respond quickly and properly can be the difference between life and death.
Having a pool in your backyard should be a fun warm-weather amenity for the whole family. But first and foremost, prioritize water safety, especially when kids are involved. With the proper precautions like pool fencing, supervision, lessons, and safety gear, you can prevent many childhood drownings and pool-related accidents. Stay vigilant, be prepared, and help ensure many summers of safe poolside memories.