It is that time of year again, and who doesn’t love to take a dip in their backyard pool to cool off? Unfortunately, the pool can be one of the most unsafe spaces in your home-especially for children and pets. Here are a few simple guidelines to keep everyone safe, cool, and splashing this summer.
Adult Supervision
It is common sense to never leave your child unattended near a pool- not for one moment. Although life jackets can help weak swimmers, there is no replacing solid adult supervision by someone who can swim. If you are an adult with little swimming skills, opt to register for swimming lessons as well as first aid training. You children can be enrolled in the tiered swimming programs by Red Cross.
Pool Rules
Establishing pool rules is the basis and structure of staying safe in your backyard pool. No glass around the pool, swim with a friend, kids need to be supervised, and no diving are common pool rules. Always have an action plan in place as well as throwing assists and a first aid kit on standby incase of an emergency. Do not use drugs or alcohol around or while in the pool.
If you have a small kiddie pool, empty it out when nobody is using it. If your pool is above ground, remove the steps or ladder when nobody is using it. This decreases the chance of an unsupervised accident. Toddlers and pregnant women should avoid hot tubs, and the temperature of the hot tub should never be more than 104 degrees F.
Good Timing
Swimming during the day is the best time, and it is best to refrain from swimming at night. It is also recommended to avoid the pool if there is poor weather such as thunder or lightening. To avoid the risks of too much sun exposure, opt for a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15. This includes over-cast days. Be sure to reapply sunscreen every few hours. You can also wear light colored clothing, a hat, and sunglasses to help stay healthy in the sun.
About the Author: An acknowledged expert in luxury coastal properties with more than fifteen years of real estate experience, Kym Talbert is devoted to serving the needs of home buyers and sellers in coastal Orange County. Known for integrity and perseverance, Kym combines unparalleled customer service with a state-of-the-art web marketing presence.
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