Make This Pool Season in Southern Maryland a Safe One

Ensure children and others are safe while swimming.

Chances are that if you have a backyard pool, the cover is off and the filter is humming during this hot and humid Maryland Summer. Fun in the pool is easily achieved, but an enjoyable day can quickly turn sour if an accident occurs.
Swimming is a popular pastime when it is hot outside -- providing good exercise and keeping you cool. However, on average 4,000 water-related injuries occur every year. Many of them are related to swimming and boating. One in four fatal drownings is a child under the age of 14.
Even non-fatal drownings can be dangerous. Brain damage can occur from when a person is denied oxygen for prolonged periods. That is why pool safety should be an utmost priority this season.
* Set up barriers. A self-latching, four-sided isolation pool perimeter fence can prevent children from wandering into the pool area, accidentally falling into an in-ground pool, or scaling the ladder of an above-ground pool. Aim for fences at least 4-feet-high. When possible, ladders should be removed when the pool is not in use. (link blue words to interior fencing page)
* Remove enticing toys. Children may be drawn to floats or toys remaining in a pool. Take them out of the water when the pool is not being used.
* Swim with a buddy. Everyone --regardless of age -- should swim with someone else present in the pool. In case of an emergency, the other person can call for help.
* Children should always be monitored. Designate a responsible adult to watch children who are swimming. This person shouldn't be engaging in any distracting activities, such as talking on the phone or browsing the Internet.
* Learn to swim. Enroll the family in a certified swimming course. Not only will you learn the basics of swimming, you can learn techniques to stay afloat and save someone's life.
* Wear a life jacket. Children or adults who are not good swimmers should wear a Coast Guard approved flotation device when around water. Water wings or foam float toys are not adequate safety devices.
* Turn off the pump. Injuries have occurred across the country when children get stuck to filter intake sources. While many of these injuries occurred in larger, commercial pools, accidents can still occur at home. At the least the filter suction can cause bruising. At the worst, it can disembowel a young child. Turn off the filter for safety's sake when the pool is in use.
* Learn CPR. If a person does become injured in a pool, prompt commencement of CPR can help clear the airways and revive an individual. Sign up for a class in your area.
* Don't drink and swim. Alcohol impairs the ability to make decisions and can compromise motor skills. Therefore, drinking and swimming don't mix.
* Prevent falls around the pool. Encourage swimmers to walk around the pool perimeter, not run. Otherwise they could trip and fall.
Play it safe while swimming and you minimize the risk of injury. Call Clinton Fence for all your pool fencing needs to keep your friends, family and animals safe this summer.

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