Water Safety Guidelines

• Do not swim alone; always swim with another person or have a buddy for help if needed.
• Operate pools in a safe, clean and healthful manner; keep chemicals out of reach;
• Keep water clear so that you can see the bottom.
• Learn to swim – take lessons and have your children take lessons from a certified instructor. Ensure that swim lessons are focused on making your child “water safe.”
• Fence all pool areas, lock gates and limit access to the pool and any body of water.
• Use & always have first aid kits & life saving equipment (poles, rings, ropes) available.
• Never leave a child unattended in or around water. Always watch your children.
• Stay out of water during stormy weather and for at least one-half hour after eating.
• While boating, always wear life preservers; while at pool or beach, obey the lifeguard.
• Install latches, locks or alarms on pool gates. Make sure the gates are kept locked.
• Make a plan on what to do in the event of an emergency and review it with all present.
• Listen to the lifeguard – better yet, become a lifeguard.
• Enjoy swimming but don’t roughhouse or play on top step of pool or in unsafe areas.
• Sunscreen should be applied and reapplied as necessary when outdoors.
• Supervise children in and out of the pool at all times. Make sure that there is a lifeguard or “water watcher” assigned at all times when children are present in the water.
• Only use flotation devices as an aid or for fun – do not rely on them for life saving.
• Never dive into water until you have checked the depth and can see the bottom.
• Safety first, always – post safety signs, take CPR, know how to give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, and learn and practice safe swimming and rescue techniques.