With warm weather comes fun in the sun and splashing in the swimming pool. But many summer activities pose risks.

More than 3,200 people drown each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Drowning is also one of the leading causes of unintentional death in children between the ages of 1 and 9. Many of these fatalities occur even with supervision.

Pool owners and their families should be aware of basic pool safety tips to make sure swimming is safe and fun for everyone.
 

Have Proper Pool Equipment

• Use a safety cover when your pool is not in use. Pool covers should tightly cover the entire pool so children or pets cannot slip underneath.
• Surround your pool with a fence or another barrier. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends securing your pool with a 4-foot-high fence or barrier with a self-closing, self-latching gate.
• Keep your pool clean and clear. Keep children away from pool filters and other mechanical devices. The suction from these devices can injure swimmers and even hold someone underwater.
• Keep lifesaving equipment nearby. Life rings, floats, or a reaching pole should be easily accessible.
   

Learn and Teach Water Safety Skills

• Always keep children under supervision. Have inexperienced swimmers swim with an adult in the pool and wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved vest.
• Avoid alcohol use. The CDC reports that alcohol is involved in 70 percent of all teen and adult deaths associated with water recreation. Alcohol negatively impacts balance, coordination, and judgment. These effects are heightened by sun exposure and heat.
• Regularly check the pool area for any potential accident hazards. Glass bottles, toys, and electric devices such as radios and fans can pose tripping or electrical hazards.
• Don’t leave toys or floats in the pool when not in use. Kids may fall into the pool trying to reach them.
• Take CPR and first aid training or refresh your training if it has been a while. This training saves lives every year.
• Contact your insurance company. Let your insurance agent know if you have a pool so they can make sure you have the right coverage.
   

If you own a pool or are planning to own one, turn to AAA Insurance to make sure you have adequate coverage.

AAA Insurance