Quick Tips for Pool Safety

• Never swim alone: Always swim with a buddy, and make sure someone is watching at all times.
   

• Supervise children constantly: Never take your eyes off young children, even for a second.
   

• Learn CPR: Knowing basic CPR can be life-saving in emergencies.
   

• Follow pool rules: Respect the posted pool rules for your safety and others.
   

• Avoid running: Slippery pool decks can lead to falls. Walk, don't run.
   

• Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration, especially in the sun.
   

• Wear sunscreen: Protect your skin with sunscreen to avoid sunburns.
   

• Check water depth: Always know the pool's depth before diving or jumping in.
   

• Stay within your limits: Don’t push yourself beyond your swimming abilities.
   

• Know the weather: Avoid swimming in bad weather, such as thunderstorms or high winds.
   

Detailed Information on Pool Safety

General Pool Safety Rules

• Always Have Adult Supervision
  Regardless of swimming skill level, children and inexperienced swimmers should always be supervised by a responsible adult. The adult should be able to swim well and should stay within arm’s reach of young children.

• Know the Pool's Rules
  Each pool will have its own set of rules. Some may prohibit diving, encourage lap lanes, or require swimming tests for certain areas. Familiarize yourself with the rules and follow them to ensure your safety.
   

• Use Pool Equipment Safely
  Whether it's a float, kickboard, or diving board, use all pool equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions. Misuse of equipment can lead to accidents or injury.
   

• Avoid Alcohol
  Drinking alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, which can lead to dangerous situations in or near the pool. Save the drinks for after swimming.
   

Swimming Safety Tips

• Know Your Swimming Limits
  Don’t venture into areas that are too deep or beyond your swimming skills. Stay in areas designated for your swimming ability. If you're a beginner swimmer, stick to the shallow end or use floatation devices.
   

• Avoid Swimming Immediately After Eating
  Though this is often debated, it’s a good idea to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after eating before swimming. A full stomach can cause discomfort, cramps, or sluggishness.
   

• Don’t Dive into Unknown Waters
  Always check the water depth before diving. Shallow pools or areas with poor visibility can cause serious head, neck, or spinal injuries. Dive only in designated deep-end areas.
   

Emergency Preparedness

• Learn CPR
  Knowing CPR can be the difference between life and death in an emergency. Make sure you know how to perform both adult and child CPR, and get certified through a local course.
   

• Know the Pool’s Emergency Equipment
  Familiarize yourself with the location of safety equipment such as life rings, reaching poles, or emergency phones. These tools are essential in case of an emergency.
   

• Have a Plan for Rescue
  If someone is in trouble in the pool, always call for help first. Then, throw a floatation device (like a life preserver or a pool noodle) to the person rather than jumping in after them, unless you're a trained lifeguard. This prevents you from becoming a second victim.
   

 

Sun Safety and Hydration

• Apply Sunscreen
  UV rays can cause serious skin damage. Make sure to apply waterproof sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapplying every two hours, especially after swimming. Consider wearing a hat and sunglasses for extra protection.

 

• Stay Hydrated
  Even though you’re surrounded by water, it’s easy to get dehydrated in the sun. Drink water regularly to keep hydrated, especially during extended periods of time in the pool.
   

Child and Infant Safety

• Use Floatation Devices for Beginners
  For infants and toddlers, make sure they are always in an age-appropriate floatation device, like a life jacket or swim seat. These devices should be Coast Guard-approved for safety.
   

• Teach Children to Swim Early
  Enroll children in swimming lessons as early as possible. The earlier they learn the basics of floating and treading water, the safer they will be in the water.
   

• Constant Supervision
  Children should never be left alone in or around the pool. Even if your child knows how to swim, active supervision is a must. This also includes when they are playing in the shallow end.
   

Diving and Jumping Safety

• Always Check Depth Before Diving
  The shallow end is not meant for diving. Before diving into any pool, make sure the water is deep enough (usually at least 9 feet). A shallow dive can result in serious injuries.
   

• Jumping in Safely
  If you're jumping into the pool, make sure you don't jump in too close to others, and never dive headfirst unless you know the pool’s depth and have permission to dive.