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Community Corner

Useful Reminders for Swimming Pool Safety

A report says there are about 390 pool or spa-related drownings for children younger than 15, annually.

An announcement urging pool safety by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said there are about 390 pool or spa-related drownings for children younger than 15, annually. Another 5,200 children of that age go to hospital emergency rooms for near-drowning injuries. An unknown number of children are seriously brain-damaged.

Below are reminders for pool safety by the USCPSC.

Having the Appropriate Equipment for Your Pool or Spa

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  • Install a four-foot or taller fence around the pool and spa and use self-closing and self-latching gates; ask your neighbors to do the same at their pools.
  • Install and use a lockable safety cover on your spa.
  • If your house serves as a fourth side of a fence around a pool, install and use a door or pool alarm.
  • Maintain pool and spa covers in good working order.
  • Ensure any pool and spa you use has drain covers that comply with federal standards, and ask your pool service provider if you do not know.
  • Have lifesaving equipment such as life rings, floats or a reaching pole available and easily accessible.

Staying Close, Being Alert and Watching Children in and Around the Pool

  • Never leave a child unattended in a pool or spa and always watch your children closely around all bodies of water.
  • Teach children basic water safety tips.
  • Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid entrapments.
  • Have a telephone close by when you or your family are using a pool or spa.
  • If a child is missing, look for him or her in the pool or spa first.
  • Share safety instructions with family, friends and neighbors.

Learning and Practicing Water Safety Skills

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  • Learn how to swim and teach your child how to swim.
  • Learn to perform CPR on children and adults, and update those skills regularly.
  • Understand the basics of life-saving so that you can assist in a pool emergency.
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