Memorial Day 2016 is approaching. You know what that means? POOL TIME! Many public pools use the Memorial Day weekend as the official opening date of their pool season. The warmer temperatures that become more frequent, at this time of year, is also open season for many residential pools. Now, is a good time to familiarize yourself and your loved ones about pool safety before their knowledge and safety is tested.
Pool and spa submersions and drownings happen quickly, especially when they involve children. A child can drown in the time it takes to answer a telephone. Be alert to the hazards of drownings, non-fatal submersion injuries and drain entrapments. For millions of Americans, swimming pools and spas are great places for families to spend time together having fun. Fun can too quickly turn to tragedy, when safety is not top priority.
Public/Community Pools
Public pool and spa owners and operators should follow local, state and federal regulations to ensure the safety of their facilities. These are helpful questions to ask when you and your family visit a public pool or spa:
- Are there fences that limit access to the pool and spa?
- Has the pool or spa been inspected to ensure it is compliant with federal and local laws and regulations?
- Are the new safety drain covers being used in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act?
- Do pool and spa pumps appear to be running?
- Is there life-saving equipment such as life rings and reaching poles available for use?
Residential Pools
Adding as many water safety steps as possible is the best way to assure a safe and fun experience in a residential swimming pool or spa. These are safety steps you can adopt at your residential pool or spa:
- Always watch your children when they are in or near a pool or spa
- Teach children basic water safety tips
- Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid entrapments
- Have a portable telephone close by at all times when you or your family are using a pool or spa
- If a child is missing, look for him or her in the pool or spa first
- Share safety instructions with family, friends and neighbors
Safety should be top priority, whether using your own pool, a neighbor’s, a resort pool or a public/community pool. You should never solely count on someone else’s knowledge of pool safety to keep you and your family safe. Always maintain some level of personal knowledge to ensure that this year’s pool season, no matter what pool you’re using, is a safe one!
