Kids Safety at Swimming Pools

Swimming is one of the most sought activities by kids and adults. Various schools, camps, parks, clubs and many other recreational places have considered swimming as an important health related activity for kids. Various apartments in India which own a pool are bound to have child swimmers. Generally not every child is accompanied by his/her parent while swimming. Hence, the authorities need to be cautious and follow certain techniques in order to maintain safety for kids while swimming.

Every swimming pool or any other water medium with a depth of 300mm or more should have safety equipments in and around. This is applicable to even spas which are present in private residential properties or others. Children of all the ages are at a risk when it comes to swimming. Most of the countries face innumerable children deaths on a large scale. A person has to be completely aware of the potentially hazardous properties of a pool. Here are a few safety steps to follow.

Water survival training: This is one of the most important steps of swimming safety of a child. As a part of the swimming process, every child should be taught on how to save himself/herself on the occurrence of various situations in the pool.

Having a safe pool fence: A swimming pool should have a pool fence which is at least 1.2 m high and should be strong and secure. The pool fence should have a self- latch, self- closing gate or a child resistant gate. The latch has to be placed more than 1.5 m high. Also it should have vertical bars no more than 100 mm apart and horizontal bars of at least 900 mm apart. Avoid placing any objects like pots, chairs, toys and others which can be used as a substitute to climb or get down inside the pool by toddlers.

Swimming pool alarm: One has to make sure that their swimming pool has been installed with an alarm, as drowning can happen in an instance. An alarm can be installed both inside the pool as well as can be worn by the child along with the swimsuit.

Pool safety barrier: A pool safety barrier should be installed in your pool. This barrier/ fence should be separating the pool from your home and all the entrances. Also all the accessible entrances to the pool should be maintained well and loose screws and hinges should be replaced. Keep all the entrances of the pool closed when an adult is not around.

Supervision: Supervising your child while swimming is one of the most critical parts. One should never leave their child unsupervised. The supervising of a child while swimming requires constant glancing. If you need to move away from the pool, it is advisable to take your child with you. When your child is inside the pool, make sure you are around the pool for your child to reach you in times of perils. Keeping a constant eye on small children while inside a paddling pool is the best option for your child’s security. Empty the paddling pools immediately once your child has finished playing. Avoid storing water in large containers as well.

First aid course: It is very important for every parent or the supervisor to attend a first aid course in order to get the training in handy in times of danger. Not just parents, but also older children and aged people can attend the first aid course for swimming. Also the CPR training should be taken by every individual while swimming.

Safety objects: It is very important to check if your child is properly fitting in the floatation devices or has slipped through it. Also check if the water mats, lifesaver rings, inflatable vests, water wings and others are properly functioning before the usage.

Obey rules: It is the duty of every parent to explain it to their child  that he/she has to obey all the instructions of the lifeguard.They should explain that the child has to follow the swimming rules even if the other children around are not following. Also the parent shouldn’t completely depend on the lifeguard and keep a check by themselves. If any miscreants are spotted in the pool, they should be asked to leave or take your child to another place.

Rescue gadgets: It is advisable to keep various rescue gadgets in handy around the pool. Rescue gadgets can help avert a disaster anytime. Gadgets like a long pole with a hook on the end or a shepherd’s hook can be kept around the pool.

Also Read:

Swimming Pool Maintenance Mistakes
Tips for a Healthy Swimming Pool in Your Apartment