Summertime means pool time for children and adults. Swimming is a fun and enjoyable activity and it’s an easy way to stay physically active and improve strength, flexibility and stamina. All who spend time in a pool should take classes to learn basic swimming skills and water safety tips.
When in and around the pool, your Michigan and Ohio pool contractor Hawaiian Pool Builders, recommends these tips:
- Use common sense when it comes to food and beverages around the pool. Don’t chew gum while swimming, you could easily choke.
- Never drink alcohol and swim.
- If you’ve had a large meal, it’s wise to allow your food to settle before getting back into the pool. Even the simple pool ‘fun’ isn’t smart on a full stomach.
- Use plastic glasses pool side.
- Watch out for the ‘too’s’ – too tired, too cold, along with too much sun, etc. When you begin to feel ‘too’ it’s time to get out of the water and enjoy your day pool side.
- Never swim alone. If you are at a public pool, be sure there is a lifeguard. If you’re swimming in your own in-ground swimming pool, swim in pairs so that if something happens, one of you can call for help.
There are always those pool rules and safer swimming guidelines that you or your guests may not even consider:
- Obey ‘No Diving’ signs. Safety says enter a backyard swimming pool feet first instead of head first.
- Do not sit on the main drain, or place any part of your body on it. The suction from the drain is strong, and could trap you underwater and cause serious injury.
- Always, always watch the weather. Know your weather conditions and be prepared for them. Because water conducts electricity, clear the pool as soon as you hear or see a storm approaching.
- Keep emergency phone numbers posted pool-side.
The above tips apply for everyone that may be in your pool, but there are always special precautions when it comes to children.
- Adults, watch your children. It only takes a moment for a slip and fall or some other accident to occur. Keep an eye on them, every second they are in and around the pool.
- Install fencing around your pool and spa to prevent access by younger children even when you are home. Fences should be at least four feet high with self-latching, self-closing gates. Also, keep the area close to the fence free of any patio furniture so children aren’t tempted to climb.
- No matter how shallow the water, or what skills the child may have, always supervise children when they are around or in your pool.
Swimming is one of the best exercises and an activity that is loved by old and young alike. By following a few safety precautions, we are confident you’ll enjoy your swimming pool season.
