Focus On Swimming Pool Safety This Summer
Florida is known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches, so it should come as no surprise that millions of people visit the state every year to enjoy the sun and water. Not all, however, end up swimming in the ocean. Instead, many residents and tourists alike find themselves enjoying the day by the pool. Unfortunately, the dangers of using a pool often go ignored, which can have devastating consequences, especially for children. In fact, drowning is the leading cause of death in children under the age of four years old and the second leading cause of death for children up to the age of 14 years old. These alarming statistics reveal why focusing on pool safety this summer is so important.
Supervise Pool Use
Although private pools won’t have a paid lifeguard on duty to protect swimmers, this doesn’t mean that there shouldn’t be a responsible adult supervising when others are swimming. Pool users should avoid swimming alone and always ensure that someone is keeping an eye on other swimmers, especially if they are children.
Avoid Strenuous Activity After Eating
Most of us have heard the age-old advice to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before getting in the pool. This is actually a good tip, as people who have eaten recently are generally more likely to experience cramps while swimming, which could result in drowning. Wading, sitting, or using a pool float in the pool after eating is probably safe, but swimmers should be wary of engaging in any strenuous activity soon after eating.
Keep the Pool Deck Dry
When someone gets out of the pool, they will almost certainly drip water onto the deck. Children playing in the pool will probably also end up splashing water on the surrounding area. This can, however, result in the formation of puddles that could cause an unwary visitor to slip and fall. By keeping the deck clear of puddles, pool owners can help prevent these kinds of accidents. This doesn’t mean, however, that pool users need to constantly be swabbing the deck during the day. Instead, property owners can place safety mats near the edge of the pool to absorb water. Directing people to avoid running near the pool can also help minimize accidents.
Clean the Pool Regularly
Bacteria can breed in water and dirt can collect at the bottom of pools, so it’s important for property owners to chlorinate their pools regularly and to use pool skimmers and other tools to clean up leaves and other debris that could clog the filter or vacuum. Taking these steps can go a long way towards preventing users from contracting water-borne illnesses.
Place a Barrier Around the Pool
A pool that is unguarded is always dangerous, especially for children. A good safety barrier, or fenced gate can help keep young children from jumping or falling into a pool unsupervised.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Even the most careful of pool users could end up suffering a swimming pool-related injury. If you or a loved one were injured while visiting the pool, contact the dedicated Florida personal injury lawyers at Boone & Davis to learn more about your legal options.
Sources:
cdc.gov/drowning/facts/index.html
cdss.ca.gov/media-center/drowning-prevention
