The heat is on in Western and Central New York as summer is set to arrive. Unfortunately, every year in the United States, there are an estimated 4,000 unintentional drownings, 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, while children ages 1–4 have the highest drowning rates. Most drownings among children aged 1–4 happen in swimming pools. Many of these fatalities occur even with supervision. AAA Insurance has tips leading into pool season for parents and caregivers.

“When warmer weather arrives, it’s great to beat the heat in a pool. But pool owners and their family and friends should be aware of basic pool safety tips to make sure swimming is safe and fun for everyone,” said David Kirst, Insurance Manager at AAA Western and Central New York.

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 other barrier.
• Keep your pool clean and clear. Keep children away from pool filters and other mechanical devices.
• Keep lifesaving equipment nearby. Life rings, floats or a reaching pole should be easily accessible.

Learn and teach water safety skills:

• Supervise children at all times. Have inexperienced swimmers swim stay with an adult in the pool and wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved vest.
• Limit alcohol use. The CDC reports that alcohol is involved in 70 percent of all teen and adult deaths associated with water recreation.
• Regularly check the pool area for any potential accident 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. Those trainings save lives every year.

It’s important to contact your insurance company and let your insurance agent know if you have a pool to make sure you have the right coverage. For more information, call your AAA insurance agent or visit your local branch. You can learn more at www.AAA.com/Insurance.