Beyond love and nurturing, the main duty of a parent is to keep their children safe! Due to COVID-19 stay-at-home orders and warmer temperatures, families are starting to get out and enjoy their outdoor spaces. This includes opening up pools for swimming. That’s why now is the perfect time to reiterate the rules of pool safety, especially for parents.
Thanks to safetytoday.org for this life saving information!
Thanks to safetytoday.org for this life saving information!
As a parent, you know that swimming pools are equal parts fun and dangerous. While your kids are focused on the fun part, you’re usually left worrying about safety. And rightfully so. Pools can be a dangerous place, even for experienced swimmers. However, there are lots of ways that you can make the backyard swimming pool a much safer place for your family.
Teaching Your Kids the Basics
No matter how safe the pool itself is, you have to make sure your kids know how to be safe in the water. These are a few things to teach your kids.
Securing the Pool
Pools pose a variety of dangers, but there are many things you can do to reduce the risk. Consider these precautions when getting your pool ready for the season.
Staying Safe in the Water
Securing your pool and teaching your kids the basics is just part of the equation. These tips can make each swimming session safer.
Pools can be a source of stress when you’re a parent, despite the fact that they provide endless fun for kids while also getting them off the couch. Taking precautions such as teaching your kids to swim safely, putting up a fence, and making sure your kids have safe water toys will help minimize the risk.
Teaching Your Kids the Basics
No matter how safe the pool itself is, you have to make sure your kids know how to be safe in the water. These are a few things to teach your kids.
- Slowly introduce your kids to different techniques so they can learn at their own pace.
- Cover basics like getting in the pool safely, treading water, and floating on your back.
- Help your kids get comfortable being underwater so they know what to do.
- Facing fear is important for becoming a confident swimmer, but don’t push too hard.
- If you’re not comfortable teaching your kids yourself, swim lessons are always an option.
Securing the Pool
Pools pose a variety of dangers, but there are many things you can do to reduce the risk. Consider these precautions when getting your pool ready for the season.
- Assess the normal wear and tear of your pool and do repairs or maintenance if needed.
- Get a pool safety fence, cover, or net to keep kids from entering the water unattended.
- Set up a comfortable spot by the pool where you can supervise your kids as they swim.
- Make sure your pool chemicals are stored safely.
Staying Safe in the Water
Securing your pool and teaching your kids the basics is just part of the equation. These tips can make each swimming session safer.
- Make sure everyone knows and follows the pool rules.
- Check pool toys before each use to make sure they’re clean and in good shape.
- Keep in mind that while float toys are fun, they’re not designed to be lifesaving devices.
- Review the signs of drowning and make sure you know what to do.
Pools can be a source of stress when you’re a parent, despite the fact that they provide endless fun for kids while also getting them off the couch. Taking precautions such as teaching your kids to swim safely, putting up a fence, and making sure your kids have safe water toys will help minimize the risk.
