A scary fact for pool owners: Drowning is the second leading cause of death from unintentional injuries among children ages one to 14. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has the following tips for staying safe:

• Never leave a child alone in or near a pool, even for a moment. Children should be actively supervised by an adult who knows CPR at all times.
• Practice “touch supervision” with children younger than five years old; this means the adult is within an arm’s length of the child at all times.
• If planning a pool party, then consider hiring a certified lifeguard to supervise. It’s required by law that a pool is separated from the house with a fence at least four feet high.
• Use gates that self-close and self-latch, with latches higher than a child’s reach. Most young children who drown in pools wander out of the house and fall into the pool.
• Keep rescue equipment (such as a shepherd’s hook or life preserver) and a telephone by the pool. The use of air-filled “swimming aids” as a substitute for approved life vests isn’t recommended. Remove all toys from the pool after use so children aren’t tempted to reach for them.
• Remember to always secure a pool when not in use so children can’t get back into it.

While these are good tips, it is also important that you have the proper training. Learn CPR and keep your certification up to date. If you are on your own, you are going to be the first line of defense if something goes wrong. Being a strong swimmer and setting a good example for your children is also important. If they see you practicing good habits they will follow your lead. If you need additional information, the CPSC has created some videos with grade advice:



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