Cool Kids Know the Pool Rules
Published on 06 April 2020
Category : Improve
If you have a pool, you have a responsibility to safeguard it. Make sure your little ones know the pool rules.
A backyard pool can be beneficial for kids. Swimming is not only fun, it is terrific exercise. In addition, a pool can set the scene for hours of quality family time, as well as playtime with friends.
However, having a pool is also a large responsibility.
While there is no substitute for vigilant adult supervision, there are additional steps you can and should take — including these:
Pool Safety Tips for Kids
- Always have an adult nearby. Even if you’re a great swimmer, you never know when you might need help.
- Set a good example so younger kids know how to behave. The pool is only safe when EVERYONE follows the rules.
- Tell an adult if there’s a problem. You don’t want to get hurt, so let an adult take care of it.
- Check the water depth. You don’t want to get hurt diving into water that’s too shallow.
- Always wear sunscreen. Without it, you could end up with painful sunburn, which can lead to other health problems.
- No running! You could slip or trip — hurting not just yourself, but someone else as well.
- Put toys away. People might trip over them and hurt themselves. No one wants that!
Making Sure Your Pool Is Secure
- Barricade the pool completely. Experts recommend a fence of at least four feet tall, with slats close enough together that kids can't squeeze between them. Make sure there are no handholds or footholds for agile climbers.
- Secure the gate with a lock. The best gates are self-closing and self-latching. Position the latches well out of reach of children. Install an audible gate alarm that will alert you inside the house if the gate is opened.
- Get an in-water pool alarm too — one that will alert you if anyone jumps or falls in the pool.
- In your home, secure doors and windows leading to the pool, so kids don't have access from inside the house.
There you have it! Adults and kids alike should be aware of these safety tips to ensure a secure and safe swimming experience.