Swimming Pool Safety Guidelines

Swimming safety rules are especially important for children.

Nearly everyone enjoys a refreshing swim in the summer but pools pose many dangers if you don't follow some basic safety guidelines. Everyone, adults and children alike, should learn and practice safe behavior around a swimming pool.

In the Pool

People that don't know how to swim should not go into water deeper than they can stand in. Don't rely on air-filled pool toys in place of personal flotation devices.

Around the Pool

Never run near a swimming pool. Make sure rescue equipment like a shepherd's hook or life preserver is nearby. Put a secure fence around a pool, if necessary, to keep children from reaching the pool during unsupervised times.

Diving

Never dive into a pool if you are not sure if it's deep enough for diving. Don't dive into aboveground pools as they are usually not deep enough to dive into safely.

Children

Never leave children unsupervised around a pool. Children that cannot swim should be within arm's reach of an adult at all times, in and around a pool.

References

• American Academy of Pediatrics: Pool Safety for Children
• Dr. Spock: Pool Safety