Drowning is one
of the major causes of accidental death for American
infants and children under the age of five.
Royal Fiberglass Pools, Inc.
urges you to read and follow these tips on how to help
prevent these accidents.
There is no substitute for
adequate supervision.
Pools and spas are attractive to children, and children must
be kept away from them in the absence of adequate
supervision.
A fence, wall or natural/artificial barrier should
completely enclose your pool or spa.
All gates or doors leading from the house to the pool area
should have a self-closing and self-latching mechanism that
protects against unauthorized entry and use. (The inside
latch should be above the reach of toddlers or young
children.) Check with your state or local government to
learn their specific legal requirements concerning fencing
around pools and spas.
You cannot be too cautious. If your pool, spa or hot tub is
indoors, lock the door to the room or have a cover that
locks, to keep out children and other unauthorized users.
Do not place objects (e.g. chairs or tables) near the pool
or spa fence that could allow a youngster to climb over.
A clear view of the pool or spa from the house should be
assured by removing vegetation and other obstacles.
If you use a pool or spa cover, carefully read and follow
the manufacturer's directions for safe installation, use and
maintenance. Always completely remove the cover before using
your pool or spa, to avoid the possibility of anyone -
especially a small child - being trapped and drowning under
the cover.
Drain any standing water from the surface of your pool or
spa cover. An infant or small child can drown in even the
smallest amount of water.
If you use any of the lightweight, floating pool or spa
covers, be especially alert for the potential for drowning
accidents. These covers are not for safety, and no one
should ever crawl or walk on them.

Safety Tips
Never leave a child alone, out
of eye contact supervision in or near the pool or spa - not
even for a second.
Access to the pool or spa should be limited by locked doors
and gates whenever swimming or soaking cannot be supervised.
Keep toys, particularly tricycles or wheel toys, away from
the pool or spa. A child playing with these could
accidentally fall into the water.
Do not allow anyone of any age to swim without a "spotter"
nearby.
Examples of good safety behavior by adults are important for
your children. |