SWIMMING POOL SAFETY REMINDERS

(NC) - Swimming pools are great for relaxing, socializing, exercise and health, but make sure you and your family enjoys your pool safely by following these tips:

General Safety:

• Never let anyone swim alone.
• If you aren't sure about someone's swimming ability, make sure they stay in the shallow water and watch them closely.
• Establish "pool rules" that address the proper use of diving boards and slides, diving and non-diving areas, pool games, food and alcohol consumption, pool maintenance, and handling chemicals. Post these rules, in simple language near the pool.
• Nobody should swim, dive, or slide if they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• If you use a pool cover, carefully read the manufacturer's directions for safe use. Always completely remove the cover before using the pool.
• Keep electrical appliances away from the pool. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) on any appliance that must be poolside.
• Drain any standing water from the surface of your pool cover. Even a small amount of water may be sufficient for a small child to drown.
• One person should assume primary responsibility for supervising the pool.
• Prohibit horseplay, especially throwing or pushing someone into the pool or dunking.

Safety Tips for Kids:

• Never leave a child alone out of eye contact or supervision in or near a pool - not even for a second.
• Do not place objects such as chairs or tables near a pool fence that could allow a youngster to climb over.
• Never consider young children watersafe despite their swimming skills, previous instruction or experience.
• Keep toys, particularly tricycles or wheel toys, away from the pool. A child playing with these could accidentally fall into the pool.
• Do not rely solely on plastic innertubes, inflatable armbands or other toys to prevent accidents.
• Remember - nothing replaces constant supervision of children around a swimming pool. - (NC)

- From News Canada