Every year during the month of May we observe National Water Safety Month! This is a campaign coordinated by The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals with support from the National Recreation & Parks Association, the American Red Cross and the World Waterpark Association. These organizations represent businesses and other individuals and agencies involved in bringing safe, enjoyable aquatic activities to the American public, from home pools and spas, to waterparks and resort, to public swimming and water recreation facilities.
While everyone can benefit from increased knowledge of water safety, we know children need extra education. We believe it is never too early to start introducing basic water safety measures. We offer the following tips to get a head start on water safety education:
1. Never leave a child unattended in or near water. Never leave children unattended even for a second- around any water! Did you know that it takes only less than two inches of water for someone to drown? This means not only can children fall into a pool and drown, but they can fall into a bucket or a puddle! It is always better to be overcautious than under-cautious.
2. Teach children how to swim. Able children can learn how to swim starting at the age of ONE! Not only that, it is highly recommended that all children have had swimming lessons by the age of 4. The sooner children are capable of handling themselves in the water, the safer they will be.
3. Teach children to stay away from drains. Hair, limbs, jewelry, and bathing suits can get stuck in a drain or a suction opening. This can cause a child to be trapped in the water and then consequently drown.
4. Ensure all pools and spas - both in your backyard and any public pool you may visit - have compliant drain covers. Again, better safe than sorry!
5. Install proper barriers, covers and alarms on and around your pool and spa. Even in these situations, and even in situations where lifeguards are present - still do not leave your children unattended!
6. Know how to perform CPR on children and adults. Often, bystanders are the first to aid a drowning victim, so learning CPR can help save a life. And once you’re CPR certified, make sure to keep your certification current. CPR classes are available through many hospitals, community centers, or by contacting the American Red Cross.
