Summer Safety Starts by the Pool

As summer gets into full swing, it’s time to start thinking about water safety measures that could save lives. According to the American Red Cross, 200 kids drown every year in backyard pools. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional and injury-related death among children ages one to four.

“Drownings are a preventable cause of death and injury for children,” says Aleksandr Rakhlin, MD, FACS, of Highland Surgical Associates and Trauma Medical Director at Montefiore Nyack Hospital. “By practicing proven safety behaviors and implementing systems, you and your family will be much more secure in and around public and residential pools.”

The best safety measures prevent accidents before they happen, like teaching your child to swim and using Coast Guard-approved life vests. Other safety tips to keep in mind are:

• Teach your children basic water safety tips, including how to swim and have them wear a life jacket when they are on a boat.
• Don’t let children out of your sight at beaches, pools, and lakes.
• If a child is missing, look for him or her in the pool or spa first.
• Lifeguards aren’t babysitters. Make sure there is a designated parent or responsible adult who can swim to watch your child at all times.
• Understand the basics of life-saving and CPR for both children and adults, so that you can assist in a pool emergency.
• Remind your children to stay away from pool drains, pipes, and other openings to avoid entrapments.
• Install proper barriers, covers, and alarms on and around your pool and spa.
• Have a portable telephone close by at all times when using a pool or spa.

The following rules apply to all swimmers of all ages and levels:

• Never swim alone.
• Don’t dive into unknown bodies of water.
• Don’t push or jump on others.
• Be prepared for an emergency.
• Create a Pool Safety Toolkit for your home pool or spa that includes: a first aid kit; a pair of scissors to cut hair, clothing or pool cover, if needed; a charged portable telephone to call 911; and a flotation device.

“The best way to prevent drowning is by providing constant supervision by an adult who can swim,” says Dr. Rakhlin. “Being vigilant and limiting distractions will assure a safe and fun summer.”

Have a safe and happy summer!