Always be present. Never leave children unattended in the pool, even for a little while. If you have to step away, have the child get out of the pool.
Keep children under 5 within arm’s reach.
Limit inflatable toy use. Inflatables are fun, but they can obstruct your view of the pool. Make sure you always have a clear view of the pool.
If you hear thunder, GET OUT of the water! Lightning is within striking distance.
Dress your children in brightly colored swimwear - neon colors are best. You will be able to spot them more easily in or under the water.
Do not use pool toys or ‘puddle jumpers’ in place of life jackets. Life jackets are specially designed to keep your child safe and afloat, while puddle jumpers (like pictured below) keep your child in an up and down position, which is know as the “drowning position”. The goal is for the child to learn how to float horizontally.

Make sure your child understands how serious the water is. Pushing, pulling, and dunking games can lead to drowning. Children have to respect the water.
Secure your pool with barriers or a fence. Even a camera or alarm system that alerts you when someone goes near the pool could save a life
Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets, and a first aid kit. Better safe than sorry.
Warn your child to stay away from pool drains or anything with suction. Hair, swimsuits, or fingers can get stuck and hold a child underwater.
Enter the pool feet first. Diving can be dangerous as it’s difficult to judge the depth of water properly.
Enroll your child in swimming lessons or an age appropriate CPR class. There are CPR training opportunities for parents and kids in the community (CPR test center in Ellington or online classes offered through Red Cross).

Water Safety - Pool Edition