Along with the warm weather comes time for pools, beaches, boats, and other water activities. Before diving off the board into the deep end, take a look at some prevention tips to help keep you your friends and your family safe in or around the water

Regarding Portable Pools:

– Once they are set up, don’t walk away and leave your child unsupervised, even if they are not in the pool yet

– Use an alarm on the door that leads to the pool

– Notify neighbors that you have a pool in your yard

– Empty and put away portable pools after every use

– For larger pools, put away access ladders when done for the day

Larger Pools/Spas:

– Keep kids away from pool drains, pipes and other openings

– Use and maintain pool covers

– Install self-latching, self-closing gates at least 4 feet high

– Encourage the buddy system

Keep Watch:

– A lifeguard is not a guarantee that your child is being watched at all times – it’s important that you keep a close watch

– When a child is missing, check the pool first

– Learn CPR so that you can help in an emergency

– Learn to swim and teach children to swim

– Don’t rely only on a flotation device to keep kids safe in water

One of the most important rules of all is to always be vigilant, aware and prepared.