Summer has arrived! And this means loads of fun and tons of pool visits. If you plan to take your kids to the pool this summer, it’s important to be well-informed with a few safety tips to make sure your trip is drenched with enjoyment.
Whether it’s in your backyard or to the neighborhood pool, Autism Vision of Colorado offers a few things to know before throwing on your flip-flops and heading to the water.
What to Pack for Pool Safety
As you pack your bags for the pool, consider packing specific items that will assist you in lifeguarding your little ones. Bring items such as sunscreen, size and weight appropriate floatation devices, bottled water or a sports drink, a light snack, goggles, a towel, and a change of clothes. Also, consider bringing a small first aid kit in case of slight cuts from rough pool floors.
Where to Find Swimming Lessons
Organizations like the American Red Cross and the YMCA offer swimming lessons. You could also research places near you by contacting local town centers or gyms, as many of them offer lessons or may know where you could find a local instructor. After your child has learned the necessary swimming skills, review what they have learned before allowing them to jump in the water. It's a good reminder for them and a little extra peace of mind for you.
Review Pool Rules Before Entering the Water
Do your kids know the basic swimming rules? Topics like how to avoid over-splashing other kids, holding your breath before going under water, or being aware of the deep end of the pool are rules that we could easily assume our kids already know. However, sometimes the fun gets the best of us, and those rules become as easy to forget as the last trip down the water slide. Make sure you review the basic pool rules with your kids each time you go to the pool. Many public pools also have their own list of rules posted at their facility as a quick reference guide.
Check the Depth of the Pool
Double-check that your child knows to stay on the appropriate side of the pool. Many pools gradually become deeper as you cross to the other side. If your child is fully ready to graduate into a greater depth, perhaps give them a small swimming test first. Ask them to complete water challenges for you to watch, such as holding their breath before going underwater or swimming from one side of the pool to the other. They will enjoy showing you their skills while you can make sure they are prepared.
Home Pool and Chemical Use
If you have a pool at home, make sure you are well-informed about the chemicals that you use. Chemicals could be dangerous to a child if they come in contact with them outside of their specifically designed pool use. Store them in a safe area, such as on a high shelf in a sealed container. Also, make sure your pool is well-maintained, and if you notice eye irritation or a significant odor, consider calling a professional to check the quality of your water and chemicals. After swimming in your pool or any chemically treated pool, allow your child to bathe or rinse off the additional chemicals.
Home Pool Safety
In addition to being mindful about pool chemicals, being vigilant about home pool safety is crucial. Ensure you have safety items like life preservers, a pool cover or pool net, and a floating sensor to alert you if your child falls into the water. One of the best ways to keep your children safe from the water is to have a fence installed around the perimeter of your pool. While this feature might seem to take away from the aesthetic, it’s worth doing for the safety of your kiddos. Plus, you will get some creative control around how the fence looks, especially if you work with a reputable contractor and top-rated contractor. Be sure to check out reviews through sites like Angi.com for local fencing companies, then home in on a few that garner high praise from customers. Ideally, you want to connect with three different contractors in order to consider all of the price points.
Now that you are prepared, splash into summer fun with your pool safety skills and know-how. The fun will come in waves while your family stays pool-safe!
Marissa Perez