“Don’t run!” is something that many parents shout to their children whether they are running in the house, in the grocery store or around the swimming pool. Children, being children, however, don’t always listen.
When you’re spending time with your children around the family swimming pool you will want to institute a “no running” policy around the pool and the deck. It is much too easy for an excitable child to slip and fall on the wet deck surfaces. You certainly want your kids to run, skip and play, just not around the pool.
Here’s four ways to prevent slips and falls around the swimming pool:
- Urge everyone to wear shoes or flip flops with nonskid soles when they are poolside. Chances are, everyone will want to be barefoot when they’re by the pool, but that isn’t the safest option.
- Make sure there are no trip or fall hazards around the pool and the deck. Don’t leave toys by the side of the pool. Make certain that pool furniture is back far enough that someone can comfortably walk between it and the pool.
- If you have a beach entry pool or any kind of pool steps there should be a handrail for added safety.
- If you’re having a poolside party, try not to carry too many items at once. You also don’t want to have glass items poolside, if they break it could lead to an injury.
Of course, it’s impossible to prevent every slip and fall. Because of that you highly recommend you have a first aid kit poolside. Whether you bring your first aid kit from the house out to the pool or have a first aid kit that is specific to the pool area, it always makes sense to have one handy. Most poolside injuries are minor – bee stings, slivers, a minor cut or scrap, but you should also have a phone handy in case you need to call for medical assistance. We recommend having your smartphone with you in the event you need to make a call.
Most swimming pool safety steps are a matter of common sense. Reinforce the rules of the pool throughout the course of the swim season and everyone will be assured a fun, safe time.
