Safety around your swimming pool is of utmost importance.
DROWNING AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION TIPS
Drowning can occur in a split second to people of all ages and swimming abilities. Drowning is a silent death, not accompanied by screaming or splashing. Educate yourself and your family to the hazards of drowning and take precautions at every opportunity.
- Infants and toddlers are drawn to water and are the most common victims of drowning accidents.
- Barriers such as fences are not reliable as they can easily be left open by accident. Install a self-latching device and preferably a lock.
- A pool net is a very safe option, although a small child could still fall face down and drown, do not allow toddlers near the net unsupervised.
- Plastic pool covers are very dangerous as they are not a safety device and can lead to entanglement and drowning if fallen on or swum under.
- Drowning is a silent death, not accompanied by screaming or splashing.
- Supervise children and non-swimmers at ALL times when near the pool.
- Pool alarms can be installed to alert you to possible activity near the pool.
- Do not allow children to run, play or ride their bikes around the pool when not swimming.
- Make sure the pool has a clear view from the house.
- Older children and even adults could slip and knock their heads which can easily lead to drowning.
- Holding of the breath can lead to “shallow water black-out” which is a common cause of death even among very experienced swimmers.
- Diving in unsuitable areas or shallow water can lead to spinal injuries and paralyses or death by drowning. Allocate a diving zone.
- If you have a diving board, ensure it is well maintained and do not allow foolish behaviour as this is a common cause of injury.
- Avoid consuming alcohol before swimming.
- All swimmers should avoid swimming alone, in the event you incur an injury, you could easily drown.
- Learn CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation).
- Have your children take swimming lessons at an early age.