What kid doesn’t want to have some fun in a pool? Just about everyone (including those who are kids at heart) loves to take a dip once in a while. However, there is also the reality of accidental drowning which has caused a lot of heartache among various families, especially if a child is involved. How many times have we heard from bereaved parents or adults that the accident would not have happened if they had been more vigilant?
We are constantly reminded how important it is to keep young and older children out of the pool if they are not supervised by an adult. Therefore, you, as an obedient adult, should take every precaution you can think of to keep the pool and its surroundings safe for children of all ages.
These would include:
- put up a pool fence;
- making sure the pool fence lock is out of the reach of children;
- cover the pool safely;
- place pool lights;
- keep lifesaving equipment (such as a life preserver, first aid kit, shepherd’s hook, and telephone, if possible) near the pool;
- a non-slip surface is used for the pool deck;
- no horseplay while swimming;
- teaching children that swimming alone is definitely not allowed;
- wear life jackets that have been specifically designed for this purpose; and much more.
On the other hand, we sometimes forget that pool chemicals can also pose a health hazard to children. Remember that the danger sign is printed on the label for a reason, so this part of the safety process should not be overlooked.
Pool chemicals should be:
- properly sealed when not in use;
- keep out of the reach of children (keep it locked up); and
- stored in a cool, dry and adequately ventilated place.
- Do not allow people, especially children, to use the pool while it is being treated.
- Invest in pool test kits, but be sure to change the chemicals used for these test kits annually.
In general, apart from teaching your child to swim, there are a number of different precautions that you, as an adult, could take to prevent your little ones from putting themselves in danger, and the combination of all these precautions can help keep your child safe from possible harm.
