Keep Your Family Safe at the Pool This Summer

The pool opening for the summer is one of the most anticipated days for kids and families, whether it is a community pool or one in your backyard. Swimming pools offer enjoyment for all ages, yet keeping safety at the forefront is essential to remain worry-free.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. for children between the ages of 1 and 4. This statistic shows how important it is to take steps to protect children and anyone else from drowning in the pool. We will highlight four crucial precautions to help keep your family safe this summer. If you or your family member is injured in a swimming pool accident due to someone else’s negligence, our premises liability attorneys are ready to manage your claim.

Take Swimming Lessons and Use Floating Gear

Enroll children and other family members in swimming lessons as soon as possible. People who take swimming lessons have a lower risk of drowning or experiencing a swimming-related injury. Life jackets or arm floats should be worn during swimming activities or boating for those not confident in the water.

If you are not already CPR-certified, consider taking a CPR class to help those who lose consciousness due to excessive water intake.

Choose a Designated “Lifeguard”

Vigilant supervision is always important when swimming in a body of water, especially with young children. Most swimming pool accidents happen due to a lack of supervision. Always have a responsible adult act as the designated “lifeguard,” who should be fully attentive and avoid any distractions. According to the CDC, a drowning can occur in five minutes or less when a child is unsupervised by the pool.

Maintain Safe Depth Practices

Pools can pose hidden dangers based on how suddenly it can go from the shallow end to the deep end. Do not dive in shallow waters, only in the deep end, as diving in the shallow end could cause head and neck trauma. Ensure that any drains are covered and follow local safety codes. If they are not, they could potentially trap limbs, clothing, hair, or other things to cause serious injuries.

Avoid Reckless Behavior and Alcohol

Alcohol can severely impair judgement and coordination. The CDC states that alcohol is involved in about 70% of water-related deaths. Stay sober when supervising or enjoying the water, and discourage any running on slippery surfaces to prevent slip and fall injuries.

Protect Your Family This Summer – In and Out of the Pool

Summer is about creating joyful memories, and it starts with safety. Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, is the largest female-founded law firm in the country, focused on keeping families protected. If a pool-related injury has affected your loved ones, you have the right to pursue compensation. Contact our office today to speak to our skilled and dedicated Personal Injury lawyers for a free consultation.