May is National Water Safety Month, so a great time to pause and remember the basic pool and hot tub water safety recommendations before summer swimming gets in full swing! A few reminders for swimming pool / hot tub water safety - even if you don't have a pool or hot tub in your backyard, chances are you will visit one at some point during the summer!
- Stay close; be alert; watch children around the pool - Never leave children alone in the pool (or hot tub) and watch your child when they are playing around the water. Kids have a fascination with water, and it only takes a split second for a fun play day to turn into a nightmare.
- Always keep a telephone close by when you and your family are using a pool or hot tub in case of emergencies.
- If your child goes 'missing', always check the pool or hot tub first.
- Learn how to perform CPR on both kids and adults and make sure to update those skills regularly. Local Fire Departments or YMCA's will often offer multiple classes throughout the course of the year.
- Understand basic life-saving techniques so you can assist in a pool emergency.
- Keep children away from pool and hot tub drains, pipes or any openings to avoid entrapment. If they are playing games to retrieve diving sticks or toys from the bottom, make sure to direct toys away from any drains.
As we all know, the #1 most effective water safety recommendation is supervision - it is the most critical line of defense in preventing drowning or water accidents. In this day and age of constant interruptions, make sure you are focused on your kiddos while they are in the water - it only takes a second, and no text, phone call, or Facebook update is worth it! Have a safe and fun summer at the pool!
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