Summer is a wonderful time for children. They love being outside in the sunshine with the fresh air and if there is a pool involved, that is all the more fun. There are many precautions one should take to keep children safe where pools are concerned. If these precautions are followed one should be able to enjoy a carefree and relaxing summer.
Be Responsible: Fence It In
Consider putting a fence around your pool to keep unwanted people out. Small children are very curious and they like to explore. A fence with a good solid lock will keep small children from coming near the pool and accidentally falling in. Keep in mind that the type of lock is very important. A padlock with a key would be ideal, even though it may be inconvenient. A lot of fences have a gate with a lift-up type lever to open and close the gate. This will not keep intruders out. You not only have to worry about your own children falling into the pool but you also have to worry about the neighborhood children.
Avoid Negligence: Keep a Faithful Watch
Always monitor your children and their friends when they are in the pool. Make sure there are enough adults to help watch all the children, especially if a party is the occasion. Older children may tell you that they know how to swim but it is important to always keep a watchful eye. Always ask the parents of your child’s friends if they give permission for their children to swim and ask how well they can swim. Keep your telephone outside with you and never leave the children unattended for an instant. If you have to go inside, then everyone goes inside. If someone has to go to the bathroom, then everyone goes to the bathroom.
Utilize Floats or Swimmies
If you own a pool, then you probably own a lot of floats. If your children are young then you also own swimmies, or the little arm floats. Make sure all young children who are in the pool wear the floats. Some families even have life jackets available for use. Make this a rule, especially for the young ones. If your pool varies in depth, then set boundaries. Often pools have a rope to prevent small children from going into the deep end. Make it a rule that no one is allowed past the rope, with or without floats.
Invest In Swimming Lessons
It is a good idea to invest in swimming lessons for your child. The local YMCA or community swimming pool should offer lessons. The best time to take swimming lessons is through the winter so that when summer rolls around your child will be ready. The little bit of money it costs is well worth the expense for the safety of your child.
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