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 Summer is a great time of year: a season of sun, swimming and all forms of outdoor activities. But an element of danger comes with those activities, and it's especially important to stay safe when it comes to swimming pools.
Pool safety starts with preventing children from unauthorized and unsupervised swimming in pools - this is why fencing is so important.
Home pools should be surrounded by fences that are at least 4 feet tall and fitted with gates that have childproof locks. Ideally, the fence should be between your house and the pool, because active toddlers can quickly slip out of the house through doors or windows. Placing a fence between the house and the pool significantly increases safety at home.
Close supervision by adults is another important safety factor. All too often, adults become distracted by interruptions - especially by the phone - and accidents occur. When you are by the pool, have a mobile phone or cell phone with you so you don't have to leave the area to answer the phone.
Adults must always be alert when they're supervising children. In pediatrics medical care, we have all seen tragedies when adults have dozed off while infants are at pools. Never leave a small child alone near a pool, even for a moment.
Swimming lessons at an early age are also important for increasing water safety. Lessons are available through schools and community organizations, and it is never too late for adults to learn - or to perfect their style. This could be a pleasant weekend activity with your children for the whole family - even grandparents.
Be prepared for emergencies. Adults who know CPR can make a big difference in the survival rates related to pool accidents and life-threatening emergencies in general. Pools should have devices such as inner tubes and safety belts handy to help anyone in difficulty.
Here are a few more precautions you can follow to ensure that the pool is as safe as possible for children:
-Remove floating toys after use so children are not tempted to reach out for them.
-Empty inflatable pools after use and put them away.
-Empty buckets and tubs after use as well.
-Keep electrical appliances away from pools.
-Do not allow riding toys near the pool.
-Do not allow your child to use a diving board in a pool that was not designed for one.
Following these simple precautions should make for a safe and happy time around the pool for the whole family this summer - and, hey, don't forget the sunscreen.
CPR TRAINING
The American Red Cross organizes courses throughout the country. For more information, contact the St. Louis chapter at 10195 Corporate Square, St. Louis, MO 63132; 314-516-2800; www.redcrossstl.org.
The American Heart Association also has an extensive list of courses, which can be searched by ZIP Code at www.cpr-ecc.org. The local affiliate is at 4643 Lindell Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63108; 314-367-3383.
Dr. Bob Wilmott is chief of pediatrics at Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital and is a professor of pediatric medicine at St. Louis University School of Medicine. If you have a question, go to the "Ask Dr. Bob" section of the Cardinal Glennon Website at www.cardinalglennon.com.
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