Summer is here!
While you're looking forward to fun in the sun and pool parties, remember to be safe in and around bodies of water, particularly when supervising children.
Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, often without splashing or yelling. The best protection is active adult supervision, safe barriers, and preparation before an emergency happens.
Designate a Water Watcher
One of the most important steps families can take is to designate a Water Watcher whenever children are in or around water. This should be a responsible adult whose only job is to watch the water.
Avoid distractions such as cell phones, conversations, reading or alcohol, and rotate Water Watcher responsibilities every 15 to 30 minutes.
Secure Pools and Barriers
Families with pools should make sure barriers are secure. Pools should be protected by fencing with self-closing and self-latching gates.
Gates should remain closed and locked when the pool is not in use, and toys, furniture or other objects that children could use to climb over a fence should be removed.
For above-ground pools, remove ladders or secure access points when the pool is not in use, and make sure pool covers are properly installed and maintained.
Build Swimming Skills
Swim lessons are another important layer of protection. Children should be enrolled in age-appropriate swim lessons, and adults may also benefit from swimming and water safety training.
Remember: Swim lessons can reduce risk, but they do not replace the need for close supervision!
Use Proper Life Jackets
When boating or participating in water activities, children and adults should wear properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
Water wings, inflatable toys, and pool noodles are NOT substitutes for life jackets.
Be Prepared for an Emergency
Pool owners and caregivers should keep rescue equipment, such as a reaching pole and life ring, near the pool. A phone should also be nearby to call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
Parents, caregivers and pool owners are encouraged to learn CPR. Immediate CPR can make a critical difference following a drowning incident.
Remove Temptations After Swimming
At the end of each swim day, remove toys, floats and other tempting objects from the pool area so children are not drawn back to the water unsupervised.
Check the Water First
If a child is ever missing, check the water first. Seconds matter during a water emergency.
This message is brought to you by the West Chester Fire Department.
