Safety for Residential Pools
Safety for Residential Swimming Pools
Swimming and playing in a backyard pool can give children enjoyment and exercise. Many people assume that, at a residence with a pool, the danger of drowning occurs when the family is outside or using the pool. However a substantial risk takes place when young children leave the house without a parent or caregiver realizing. Backyard pools attract children with the color of the pool, the characteristics of water and objects in a pool.
Children under five account for 80% of home drownings, half of these in the child’s home pool and one-third occurring at the homes of friends, neighbors and relatives. For every child that drowns it is estimated four more are hospitalized for near drowning. Most children who drown in residential pools were last seen in the home, had been missing less than five minutes and were in the care of one or both parents at the time of the drowning. Homeowners with residential pools can take steps to minimize the risks of an unintentional injury involving a pool.
1) Never leave children alone in or near the pool area, even for a moment.
2) Install fencing at least 4 feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate that separates
the home from residential pools.
3) Teach your child to swim at an appropriate age.
4) Teach your child and visitors safety rules and enforce them.
5) Don’t let young children who cannot swim use air-filled swimming aids.
6) Keep rescue equipment and a phone by the pool.
7) Remove all toys and objects from the pool after use.
8) If a child is missing, always look in the water first, seconds count.
Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death for children under 15 years old and often happens quickly and silently, often without any splashing or screaming. Constant supervision with water safety rules for both the pool area as well as proper behavior in the pool is vital for children. Drownings typically occur whena child is left unattended or during a lapse of supervision. Parents must realize that air-filled rafts, floaties, rings and toys as well as Styrofoam noodles are not safety devices. Always secure a residential pool after use and remove all toys and objects from the pool and the pool area.
Statistical information and Safety information from:
US Consumer Product Safety Commission
National Safekids Campaign
American Academy of Pediatrics
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
