Avoiding Swimming Pool Accidents
When summer arrives, most people’s thoughts turn to the pool, but swimming pool accidents are common and there are ways to prevent them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that an estimated 3,960 cases of unintentional drowning occur in the United States. While all ages are susceptible to accidents, children aged one to four are the most vulnerable.
An injury in a swimming pool can devastate a family. Additionally, it may require long-term ‒or even life-long‒medical treatment. There are ways to ensure a safe summer, including getting personal umbrella insurance.
But while insurance will cover you for potential injuries, it is still necessary to take safety precautions. Knowing what to do when the unexpected occurs will help keep you and your family safe while in the pool.
Safety Measures to Minimize Pool Accidents
Practicing swimming pool safety tips can help prevent injury to you and your family. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:
Check the Pool Equipment
Inspect the pool equipment before any significant event or when you are expecting plenty of guests. Ladders, slides, diving boards, pumps, and filters should all be working correctly and be in good condition to ensure everyone’s safety.
Be Aware of the Pool Depth
Always be aware of the pool’s depth, especially if there will be children swimming. Having markings throughout the pool’s edge is always a good idea, as it will inform new guests which areas of the pool they can safely enter.
Clear the Pool Area of Obstructions
Pool toys and accessories significantly add to the fun but could also increase the risk of accidents. Clear away large and immovable objects that could pose a tripping hazard.
Discourage children from running around the pool area. It will help reduce the risk of slips and falls resulting in drowning or severe injury. If you must have toys around the pool, it is advisable to have a couple of adults keep a close watch on the activities to minimize accidents.
Have an Adult Who Knows CPR
Speaking of adults, it is always a good idea to have someone around who knows CPR. According to the Resuscitation Journal, neurological recovery from near-drowning incidents is much more likely when the victim receives CPR immediately.
The interval between the drowning and the paramedics’ arrival is critical. Having someone around who knows CPR could be the one thing that could save the victim’s life.
It is essential to know CPR if you have kids at home. You and your partner could even consider taking a CPR certification class.
Moderate Alcohol Intake
Alcohol and swimming often go hand-in-hand, but the combination can be disastrous and even lethal. Of course, it can be tempting for grownups to indulge in their favorite alcoholic beverages during poolside festivities. Even so, it is always advisable to practice moderation.
Putting a damper on excessive partying when there are kids around is essential. Monitoring children requires full attention and control over all your senses and physical functions. Unfortunately, all these go out the window if you’ve had too much to drink. If you must imbibe, try to wait until the pool party finishes, and everyone is safe on dry land.
Know Your Limits
Finally, know your limits in and out of the water. Assessing your abilities is crucial for understanding what to do and how to react in an emergency. Make sure to stretch thoroughly before engaging in strenuous activity and resist the urge to perform tricks and feats of physical strength and endurance without prior experience or preparation.
Summer at the pool can be fun and rewarding, and it is important to have a safe and fun summer.
About Daniels Insurance, Inc.
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.