IT’S NOT “POOL FUN” IF IT’S NOT “POOL SAFE”

They call them “accidents” for a reason, but when it comes to pool safety, injuries or tragic outcomes are more often a matter of “inattention” than unexpected occurrences.

The fact is, most of us are already aware of what care needs to be taken around bodies of water. But familiarity and complacency often cause us to drop our guards and take safety for granted. That can not only cause an unpleasant occurrence to happen during an outing – it can also result in unfortunate life-changing events.

Let’s not let that happen this year.

If pool fun or other outdoor water sports are part of your summer experience, take the time to review these safety tips. And even better, make the time in your schedule to learn CPR and basic lifesaving skills. It’s one of the few things that can actually make the difference between life and death.

Constant Supervision

Can we say this enough? Probably not. But it is the simplest and easiest way to prevent swimming injuries or drowning. Kids can’t yell for help when they’re face down. So pay attention to your kids and don’t allow yourself to get distracted (be especially wary of cell phones for this).

Swimming Lessons & Flotation Devices

Statistics tell us that only 35% of Americans know how to swim, and only 2-7% of them do it well. It’s time to change those numbers – so why not enroll your kids in a swimming school? They’ll learn a skill that will serve them all their lives, and may even save someone else down the road (who knows?). You can enroll your kids in swimming lessons when they’re as young as 3 or 4, and there are other programs that will teach them other water exercises at an earlier age. Keep in mind, though, that teaching your kids to swim is not a foolproof method to prevent them from drowning.

Until you’re comfortable that they ‘know their stuff,’ be sure to keep proper flotation devices available for them. Don’t just shop for what’s cute or popular – do your research when buying “floaties” or swimsuits with built-in flotation devices. Make sure that they are appropriate for your child’s age and skill level – but again – and we can’t say this enough – never use them as a substitute for supervision.

Secure the Area

Ensuring that your pool is secured on all sides isn’t just a safety issue for your children, but pools are known to be ‘attractive nuisances’ and often children who shouldn’t even be in your yard will find their way to a pool. Because of this, it’s difficult to say that you can take precautions too far. In fact, we also recommend a pool cover that’s tight and secure, and surface or underwater alarms to alert you when there are waves or disturbances in the pool. And check the condition of these things often! Wear and tear can cause pool covers to loosen, for example. Keep gates locked when not in use, and even the door from your home to the pool area. Also, make sure toys aren’t left in or around the pool so children aren’t tempted to play with them and accidentally fall in.

Be Prepared

If a pool accident did happen – what would you do? Prepare yourself to be in a position to help, not just a bystander. Learn CPR so you can offer assistance while waiting for the EMT’s to arrive. And you can also learn the basics about handling emergency wounds until a professional can take over. These are life-saving skills that can make a difference in any injury outcome, and you’ll never regret acquiring them. Check with your local Red Cross or city/county agencies for training. (And keep a First-Aid Kit nearby, too!)

Educate Your Kids About Safety Rules

No doubt, we’re all at the pool to have a good time – but what’s “fun” for one person can be a hazard for someone else. Pushing friends into the pool or “cannonballs” can be dangerous, and children may not realize just how dangerous until you say it out loud. Don’t assume ‘everyone knows that’ — play it safe, not sorry.

By following just these few suggestions, the odds are in your favor that you (and your kids) will never have to deal with a serious injury around your pool. You’ll be able to enjoy your summer with peace of mind. Now – off to the water!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with their Las Vegas real estate needs. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!