Summer is a special time for having fun in the backyard pool, yet drowning is a leading cause of accidental death.  Drowning is many times called the “silent killer” as you might not hear a cry for help or the sound of a splash to alert you that a child is in trouble.  To keep your summer fun and tragedy free, follow these safety tips:

Don’t Get In Over Your Head

Regardless of whether you are a beginner or seasoned swimmer, always make sure to swim in a water depth that is most comfortable for you.  You should never swim in water that’s deeper than you are used to or that makes you feel intimidated.

Child Safety Tips

If children are present, make sure that they are never left unattended near the pool area.  If they are in the water, an adult should be nearby at all times in case help is needed.  It’s also important that children be equipped with the proper flotation aid to help them remain above water.

Watch Your Step

If your pool has steps leading down into the water, make sure that there is a sturdy handrail to hold onto.  This will not only help as you enter the water, but will also help to prevent slipping when you emerge from it as well.

Fenced Area

Make sure that your pool is situated in a fenced area that remains locked when not in use.  This will prevent small children from wandering into the area and being in danger of falling into the pool.  This is especially important if you have young children in the home, but is also important if you live in a family-friendly neighborhood where children live.

In addition to these safety tips, make sure to keep your pool covered when it’s not in use and/or when you are away from home.  It’s also a good idea to have your pool area well lit so that you can see what’s going on after the sun goes down.

Maintenance Matters

One of the most important aspects of a swimming pool is cleanliness.  If you have a pool, make sure that you clean it regularly or hire a professional pool service to handle the work for you.  Anytime someone swims, water can get into their eyes and mouth, which is why keeping your pool clean is a must.

Pool Permission

If you are hosting a pool party or your children are inviting friends over for an afternoon swim, make sure that you check with the parent(s) of every child present to confirm permission for their child to swim in your pool.