Safety at the Pool

Swimming pools remain a great place for family fun in the sun. It is important for all adults, parents, and caregivers to know how to keep kids safe around water. Tonight, on House Call a medical professional from UHC explains how to keep your child safe this summer while enjoying the great outdoors.

1). How important is it to learn to swim?

Swimming is not only fun, but also a lifesaving skill. Drownings rank fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury deaths in the United States. Enroll children in swimming lessons; there are many free or reduced-cost options available.

2). What are some tips for parents to ensure safety while at the pool?

Adults should always take the pool pledge before taking their children swimming. One minute is all you need to take the pledge to make sure your family is safer around water this year. The following are important safety measures to consider, and included in the pool pledge for adults:

Adults should pledge to...

• Designate a water watcher every single time children in my care are in or near the water.
• Make sure my child knows how to swim.
• As a parent or guardian, learn CPR.
• Always remove portable pool ladders when not in use.
• Ensure all permanent pools have a proper fence and gate and safer drain covers.

If you are interested in learning more about the adult pool pledge, please visit: www.poolsafely.gov/Pledge.

3). Is there anything kids can do to ensure safety while at the pool?

Yes, children can also take the kids pool pledge before going swimming, as there is a separate safety pledge for them. One minute is all your child needs to take the pledge to make sure they are safer around water this year. The following are important safety measures to consider, and are included in the children’s pool pledge:

Children should pledge to...

• Never swim alone.
• Ask parents to sign you up for swimming lessons.
• Stay away from drains in the pool or hot tub.
• Have fun and always follow safety steps when they are in and around the water.

If you are interested in learning more about the pool pledge for kids, please visit: www.poolsafely.gov/Pledge.

This content was originally posted on the WDTV News website here.

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