All pool owners need to have a safety plan, whether for monitoring the pool or ensuring proper water balance. In recognition of National Water Safety Month, the pHin team put together tips to brush up on pool safety for a safe season this year:
1.Practice Swimming Skills
Basic swimming skills are needed before jumping into any body of water including pools, oceans, and lakes. The American Red Cross recommends mastering a few basic skills before swimming: before taking a swim, you should be able to enter water that is over your head and return to the surface, tread water for at least one minute, swim 25 yards, and exit the water.
2.Establish A Protection Plan
When children are in the water, parents should be vigilant with no distractions, and stay no more than an arm’s length away from the child while they swim. If an emergency occurs, be prepared to help by knowing the signs of drowning, enrolling in CPR training, and always paying close attention to all swimmers in the pool.
3. Know Your Limits
Take extra precautions, even if you don’t plan on going for a swim. Swimmers should know their physical limitations; don’t overexert yourself or get stuck in a situation that your body can’t handle. It’s also a good idea to save the cocktails for after the swim, to make sure you are alert aware and smart around water.
4.Use Protection in and Around Water
Set up a game plan with your family for pool time. All pools should have a fence or some type of barrier surrounding them to prevent anybody from getting in the area without adult or pool owner supervision, and it’s a good idea to teach young children to ask permission before they jump in. Children and other inexperienced swimmers should also use life jackets or flotation devices when entering the water. Keep a first aid kit and phone in your pool area for quick access if an emergency occurs.
5. Invest in Proper Pool Equipment
If your pool equipment isn’t functioning properly, you might run into some safety issues. Check if your pool cover is in good working order and ensure that your pool has proper drain covers. Check your water balance regularly to make sure it’s safe for swimming. While chemicals can be confusing, technology likepHin helps eliminate the guesswork. pHin floats in your pool water and constantly measures the water’s balance while providing real-time alerts if the pool is not safe for swimming.
