Pool Safety Tips Provided for Memorial Day Safety

Deputy Chief Randy Gabel said all firefighters and team members want everyone to have a safe and fun summer, beginning with the major kickoff of the pool season on Memorial Day weekend.

To prevent a tragedy, Gabel shared the following tips from the Home Safety Council:

• Pool or spa owners should install a fence that goes all the way around it. The fence should close and latch by itself. It should be least 5 feet high.
• Always keep gates closed and latched. Never prop a gate open.
• When children are in or near the water, a grownup should watch them very carefully. Do not take your eyes off them.
• If you have a pool party, have grownups take turns watching the children at all times.
• Enroll non-swimmers in swimming lessons taught by a qualified instructor.
• Never swim alone. Even adults should swim with a buddy.
• Learn how you would save someone in trouble. Learn First Aid and CPR. Make sure that anyone who cares for your children learns CPR.
• Keep poolside rescue equipment and a cordless, water resistant telephone close to the pool area.
• Post emergency numbers and CPR instructions near the pool area.
• Tie up long hair before swimming.
• Pool drains should have a cover. For added protection, consider purchasing a safety guard to install over the drain.
• Never leave toys in or around the pool when you are not there.
• Teach children the “rules of the pool.” Remind them often.
• Keep spas and hot tubs covered and locked when not in use.
• Completely remove pool and spa covers before anyone gets in.
• Stay out of the pool during severe weather and thunderstorms, especially if lightning is forecast or present.
• If a child is missing, check the pool area first.
• The pump in a pool or spa creates powerful suction at the drain which can trap a swimmer under water. Teach children to stay away from drains, grates and filters.