Each city or town seems to have
their own regulations and minimum standards for pool safety
depending upon how that public official interprets the laws.
Some of the regulations may seem overly cautious or burdensome,
but remember, it is your own family's safety that matters.
Don't skimp on safety!
KEEP
IN MIND ...
An open swimming pool will attract
children. It requires disciplined vigilance to keep your
pool secure. Be alert!
ABOVE-GROUND POOLS
- Steps and ladders leading from
the ground to the pool should be secured and locked, or
removed when the pool is not in use.
- Don't leave lawn furniture or
other items near the pool which a child might pull near the
pool to climb up.
RULES FOR POOLS
- Instruct babysitters about
potential pool hazards to young children and about the use
of protective devices, such as door alarms and latches.
Emphasize the need for constant supervision.
- Never leave a child
unsupervised near a pool. During social gatherings at or
near a pool, appoint a "designated watcher" to protect young
children from pool accidents. Adults may take turns being
the "watcher." When adults become preoccupied, children are
at risk.
- If a child is missing, check
the pool first. Seconds count in preventing death or
disability. Go to the edge of the pool and scan the entire
pool, bottom and surface, as well as the pool area.
- Do not allow a young child in
the pool without an adult.
- Do not consider young children
to be drown-proof because they have had swimming lessons.
Children must be watched closely while swimming.
- Do not use flotation devices
as a substitute for supervision.
- Learn CPR (cardiopulmonary
resuscitation). Babysitters and other caretakers, such as
grandparents and older siblings, should also know CPR.
- Keep rescue equipment by the
pool. Be sure a telephone is poolside with emergency numbers
posted nearby.
- Remove toys from in and around
the pool when it is not in use. Toys can attract young
children to the pool.
- Never prop open the gate to a
pool barrier.
