rules for pools

(YMCA) - We all love swimming during the summer, but along with the sand, surf, and pools come dangers. According to the Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injuryrelated deaths to children under 14. You can protect yourself and those you love by following a few simple steps when you’re around water this summer.

Backyard Pool Safety

Don’t let your backyard pool become a hazard. For safe water play in your backyard pool, keep these tips in mind:

• Make sure swimmers in or near the water are supervised by an adult who knows pool rules and emergency procedures and can swim well. Never leave a child alone near a pool for any reason, even to answer the phone.

• A secure fence with childproof locks should surround the pool and guard against unsupervised swimming. Gates should be locked when no adult is present.

• Establish pool rules and post them near the pool. Don’t allow running or horseplay around the pool. Be careful with inflatable toys that may deflate unexpectedly.

• Be prepared for emergencies. Have a long pole, a ring buoy with a throwing line, and a first aid kit close at hand. Keep emergency numbers handy. Get training in lifesaving, first aid, and CPR. Practice rescue techniques with those who regularly use the pool.

• To prevent injuries, make sure all divers dive with caution. Allow diving only in water nine feet deep or more. Never allow diving in an aboveground or hopper-bottom pool.

• Never swim when lightning is present. Vacate the pool area and don’t return until at least 15 minutes after the end of a storm.

Public Pool and Beach Safety

Pool and beach fun starts with a clean, safe place to swim. When you choose a place for your family to swim, be sure to check the following points:

• The area is supervised by a lifeguard.

• The water is clean and safe.

• The facility is clean and well maintained.

• No electrical equipment or power lines are in the area.

• Emergency communications and safety equipment are available.

• The depth of the water is marked.

• Lifelines separate the shallow from the deep water.

• Follow all beach/pool rules. They are there for your safety.

Several local organizations, including the YMCA of Greater Rochester, offer swim lessons and water safety courses, as well as certifications in lifeguarding and CPR/First Aid. The YMCA also offers Backyard Swim Lessons through several Rochester-area branches. Families can also participate in the YMCA’s Splash Week Water Safety Program, which is a free water safety and basic swim skills program for all ages. YMCA Splash Week takes place April 17-21 at seven Rochester-area YMCA branches. Call your local YMCA for Splash Week information, or register online at www.rochesterymca.org.