Take Safety Home: Water Safety is for Everyone

Nothing feels better then getting in a pool on a hot summer day.  But a pools, and many other water sources, can pose risks that everyone should be aware of.  Safety measures should be taught and  followed strictly, to prevent fatal accidents from happening.

Water Safety is for All Ages, Not Just Children

It only takes a moment. A child or weak swimmer can drown in the time it takes to reply to a text, check a fishing line or apply sunscreen. Death and injury from drownings happen every day in home pools, hot tubs, at the beach, in lakes, rivers and streams, and elsewhere.

Drowning is the second-leading cause of death for children.  Tragic water accidents can happen quickly.  Make “water knowledge” a priority for everone, not just children.  One of the MOST important things to do it make sure that the entire family learns to swim at an appripriate age.

According to the National Safety Council, about 10 people die from drowning every day (not including boating accidents) in the United States, as noted in Injury Facts®, the annual statistical report on unintentional injuries.

Follow these tips to prevent injury:

  • Never dive into shallow water or water where the bottom is not visible.
  • Never use alcohol or drugs while swimming or boating.
  • Never leave children unattended near a water source, even for a few seconds.
  • Gates around pools should be self-closing and self-latching. Latches should be out of the reach of small children.
  • For above-ground pools, steps and ladders should be secured when in use and removed when the pool is not in use.
  • Never swim alone, no matter how good of a swimmer you are.
  • Do not attempt to jump in and save a drowning victim unless properly trained and certified in lifesaving practices such as CPR. Call 911 for help.
  • Get out of the water and move away from any water source if a thunderstorm is imminent.
  • Wear foot protection to prevent cuts and abrasions.

Pool Chemicals Can Also Present a Hazard

Pool chemicals can help keep us safe from illnesses that spread through the water, but there is a downside.  These same chemicals can also be toxic if not handled properly.  When opening pool chemical containers, wear safety gloves and eye protection and avoid inhaling product that may become airborne.  Keep chemicals safely stored and away from children.

  • Approximately 36% of pool chemical injuries were experienced by kids under the age of 18
  • More than half (56%) of all injuries occurred at a residence

Don’t Forget About Water Safety for Our Pets

Water can be a great source of fun for you and your dog. You might think canines are natural-born swimmers, but that isn’t always the case.  Before you take your dog out for a paddle, make sure you know how to keep things safe.
There’s no sure way to gauge your dog’s swimming skills until you introduce them to the water and teach them the basics.  Remember too, that only some breeds of dog can tolerate cold water temperatures.  And just like their human family, never leave your dog alone in the water.  Remember too, that pool chemicals can also be harmful to pets.  So exercise the same safety precautions with our furry friends as we do with the rest of the family!!
Additional Resources
For additional safety guidelines and online resources check out this link from the Red Cross:

Water Safety | American Red Cross

The National Safety Council has an outreach program and provides a tool kit for pool safety.  So far, more than 75,000 adults and children have signed the Pool Safely Pledge.

Take the Pledge today and get a free Pool Safely Toolkit.

Water Safety – National Safety Council (nsc.org)

For more tips on pool chemical safety, please access the free video

Pool Chemical Safety

Compliance Consultants, Inc. wants everyone to enjoy the summer fun with all your friends, informed, prepared, and safe! 

This information is provided as a service to you by Compliance Consultants, Inc.

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