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Drowning Prevention
Drowning is a leading
cause of accidental death in this country, especially for children under five. Although
the greatest percentage of drownings occur in natural aquatic settings, (e.g. oceans,
lakes, quarries, etc.) drownings do occur in swimming pools. The water depth of any pool
is sufficient for drowning to occur. The following are tips on how to help prevent these
accidents:
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 Never leave a child out of
supervisory eye contact in or near a pool, not even for a second. There is absolutely no
substitute for constant adult supervision. If you must leave the pool area, take your
child with you.
Pools and spas are attractive to children, and children must be kept
away from them in the absence of adequate supervision. A fence, wall or natural/artificial
barrier should completely enclose your pool or spa. All gates or doors leading from the
house to the pool area should have a self-closing and self-latching mechanism that
protects against unauthorized entry and use. (The inside latch should be above the reach
of toddlers or young children.)
Check with your local or provincial government to learn their specific legal
requirements concerning fencing around pools and spas. You cannot be too cautious. If your
pool, spa or hot tub is indoors, lock the door to the room or have a cover that locks, to
keep out children and other unauthorized users.
Do not place objects (e.g. chairs or tables) near the pool or spa fence that could
allow a youngster to climb over.
A clear view of the pool or spa from the house should be assured by removing vegetation
and other obstacles.
If you use a pool or spa cover,
carefully read and follow the manufacturer's directions for safe installation, use and
maintenance. Always completely remove the cover before using your pool or spa, to avoid
the possibility of anyone, especially a small child -- being trapped and drowning under
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Drain any standing water from the surface of your pool or spa cover. An
infant or small child can drown in even the smallest amount of water. If you use any of
the lightweight, floating pool covers, be especially alert for the potential for drowning
accidents. These covers are not for safety, and no one should ever crawl or walk on them.
Keep toys, particularly tricycles or wheel toys, away from the pool. A child playing
with these could accidentally fall into the water.
Do not allow anyone of any age to swim alone. Examples of good safety behaviour by
adults are important to children.
Teach your children to swim but maintain constant supervision.
To avoid entrapment, never use a pool if any of the grate outlets are missing or
broken.
Do not permit playful screaming for help which might mask a real emergency.
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