Pool Safety Tips for Parents and Caretakers
Summertime is great and even better when you get to the pool to cool off! As parents and professional childcare workers, we need to make sure to follow good pool safety to avoid accidents and emergencies with the children in our care. Charlotte’s Best Nanny found some helpful information and tips to keep everyone safe and happy this summer at the pool:
Take swim lessons: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children take swim lessons by age 4 (baby- and toddler-focused classes can help make kids comfortable in water, but do not supplant a need for more formal swimming lessons or adult supervision). Many accidents can be prevented by following basic pool rules such as using the buddy system, walking in the pool area and avoiding shallow areas when diving.
Always supervise kids: Lifeguards, though trained to spot horseplay or trouble, usually have dozens of swimmers to monitor. That’s why a caregiver should always keep watch, too. One helpful tool: A “Water Watcher Card” parents or caretakers can pass around in shifts to signify a designated monitor.
Watch for silent drowning: Unlike what might be portrayed in movies, a drowning individual might not be splashing or crying out for help. Also, young people should be trained to seek out a life preserver, pole or rope to help someone when an adult isn’t present; they should not go in themselves to help.
Hydrate and lather up: Time in the sun plus play can leave swimmers parched and risking dehydration. Have water or sports drinks handy for drink breaks. And while pools might be a good way to cool off the sun’s rays bounce off the water and can cause even more damage to your skin. Apply sunscreen according to instructions.
Keep the pool area safe: Ensuring safety doesn’t just apply when kids are in the water. Cover backyard pools to avoid issues during downtime. It’s important there is nothing left in the pool area that looks enticing. That means no inflatables or toys left in the vicinity. And all pools should be fenced and have a lockable gate.
5 Survival Tips every kid should know:
-float or tread water for one minute
-turn around in a full circle and find an exit
-swim 25 yards to exit the water
-Exit the water without using a ladder
-step or jump into the water over their heads and return to the surface
By following these simple tips we can avoid many risks that come along with the pool season. It is important to always put our children’s safety first. We hope everyone has a happy and safe summer!
-Written by Elizabeth
