Whether it’s a public pool, a residential backyard oasis, or a commercial water park, ensuring safety measures are in place is crucial to prevent accidents and promote a secure environment for swimmers of all ages. From implementing proper fencing and supervision protocols to educating users about water safety practices, a comprehensive approach to pool safety is essential to minimize risks and maximize enjoyment.

Secure Your Pool When Not in Use

• Completely surround your pool with four-sided isolation fencing with a self-closing and self-latching gate that is out of the reach of a child.
• A four-sided isolation fence (separating the pool area from the house and yard) reduces a child’s risk of drowning 83% compared to three-sided property-line fencing.
• For above-ground pools, secure, lock or remove steps, ladders and anything that can be used for access (such as outdoor furniture and toys) whenever the pool is not being actively supervised by an adult.
• Install a secondary barrier, such as:
  • Door alarms and locks that are out of the reach of a child on all doors and windows with direct access to the pool or spa area
  • Lockable covers

For further details, consult the pool barrier guidelines issued by The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Establish and Enforce Rules and Safe Behaviors

• Do not enter head first unless in a pool that has a safe diving area.
• Stay away from drains and other openings that cause suction.
• Swim with a buddy.
• Only swim when supervised by a water watcher.
• Swim sober.
• Supervise others sober and without distractions, such as reading or talking on or using a cell phone.

Take These Water Safety Steps

• Employ layers of protection including barriers to prevent access to water, life jackets, and close supervision of children to prevent drowning.
• Ensure every member of your family learns to swim so they at least achieve skills of water competency: able to enter the water, get a breath, stay afloat, change position, swim a distance then get out of the water safely.
• Know what to do in a water emergency – including how to help someone in trouble in the water safely, call for emergency help and CPR.

Information provided by the American Red Cross