Summer Swimming! 10 Rules for Pool Safety

School is almost out, and that means it’s time to swim. Summer and swimming go hand in hand in many families, including mine. There’s nothing more refreshing than jumping into a cool pool in the heat of summer. However, the source of joy can also be a source of tragedy if strict rules are not followed. Swimming is my favorite activity, but I also have a healthy fear and also a respect for the inherent dangers of water. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental deaths in the preschool age group and the second leading cause in children under 14. Although not an exhaustive list, here are ten good rules to follow for pool safety.

1. Adult supervision

This is the most critical issue for safety. Appoint one adult as the water watcher when children are swimming. While on duty as the water watcher, the supervising adult should not use any device, including their phone. If young children are swimming, they should be within arm’s reach of an adult at all times. The supervising adult should not be consuming alcohol or any other substance, and their eyes must constantly be on the pool activity. Keep in mind that drownings usually do not happen as depicted in movies. There is often very little splashing or noise associated with drowning. It’s most often silent and can easily go unnoticed.

2. Safety devices

There should be safety devices such as a shepherd’s hook, a ring buoy, a lifeguard tube, and a phone. Know the pool’s address so you can tell emergency services your location if necessary.

3. Life jackets

Do not rely on floaties, water wings, pool noodles, or inflatables like air mattresses. Life jackets should be U.S. Coast Guard-approved. Water wings are dangerous because they give a false sense of security to the child and the parent. They are NOT a substitute for a life jacket.

4. Diving

Diving is a leading cause of spinal cord injuries. If someone is going to dive, check that the pool is deep enough. Over half of diving injuries occur in less than four feet of water.

5.  Fence enclosure

There should be a fence surrounding the pool, and the gate should be locked when the pool is not in use. There should also be childproof locks on doors and windows leading to the pool.

6. When not in use, keep pool toys away from the pool.

A young child might be tempted to retrieve a toy and accidentally fall into the pool.

7. Wear bright swimsuits.

Buy bright colored swimsuits for kids. Avoid colors that blend into the water and pool surface. Bright pink, orange, and neon green are good choices.

8. Know CPR.

It might save someone’s life! Four years ago, my grandson had a severe choking episode that would have ended in death or brain damage if my daughter had not known and implemented emergency procedures. The first responders arrived, but by that time it would have been too late.

9. Swim lessons

Swim lessons are important for children and adults! Locally, some options include the YMCA, Miller Swim School, Goldfish Swim School, and Tulsa Lifeguard Pro. Many neighborhood pools also offer lessons. Lessons should include survival skills such as floating and treading water. Even though my grandchildren have taken several years of lessons and are good swimmers, we’ll begin the summer with refresher lessons.  If you’re an adult who has never learned to swim, it’s never too late!

10. Check water first

If a child is missing, always check the water first! Drowning is usually silent and happens quickly. A quick response increases the chance of survival!

I’m generally a laid-back grandparent, but when it comes to pool safety, I am very strict. My husband and I have both had scary nightmares about our grandchildren and water-related incidents.  We do have a pool in our backyard, and the grandkids have heard our safety instructions too many times and know the consequences (missing a day of swim time) for not obeying the safety rules. I’m usually a bit of a pushover, so when I am strict, they know it’s serious. I can break some rules, such as allowing a cookie before dinner, but the pool rules are non-negotiable! An accident can happen in the blink of an eye. Do what you can to prevent them and know what to do in case of an accident. Enjoy a summer of swimming and make sure it’s safe!