Most drownings happen quickly and silently, and oftentimes can be avoided. One way to avoid fatalities is to designate an adult caregiver as a “Water Watcher” by the pool or body of water. This responsible adult will have the role of actively watching any child in or near the water. A brief phone call, text message or other distraction is all it takes for a tragedy to happen. Here are some other pool and spa tips:
Lock
- Put up a fence that’s at least 4 feet high and surrounds all sides of the pool. There should also be a gate that closes and latches itself, plus is lockable.
- Use door, gate, and pool alarms.
Look
- Always watch children in or near water. Watch children even if they know how to swim.
- Children who can’t swim or can’t swim well should be within your reach.
- Keep a phone near you to use only if you need to call for help.
- If a child is missing, look in the pool or spa first.
Learn
- Both adults and children should learn to swim.
- Learn CPR
