Swimming is a popular sport or activity for people of all ages. Especially for children, swimming is one of the most popular activities for them during the summer months. Hence pool safety and the associated rules and guidelines must be understood and taken seriously by parents. It is crucial for parents to also teach their children the essential pool rules so that they can stay safe and at ease while their child splashes around with joy.
As per data, drowning is one of the leading causes of death among children across the world. Accidents in the pool can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities in some cases. Hence parents need to stay informed of the swimming pool safety measures and teach their children about them as well.
In this blog, we will highlight the essential swimming pool safety rules that parents should know and teach their children. This will not only help instil in children a sense of responsibility for their safety but also enable them to create a safe as well as enjoyable environment for them to swim.
Also Read: 5 Advantages of Swimming In Early Childhood
Rule 1: Ensure adult supervision
It is never recommended to swim alone in a pool. Emphasise to your child the importance of having a swimming buddy for their safety. Even the most competent swimmers, while in the pool, might experience, loss of consciousness, fatigue, cramps, or other emergencies that could cause drowning. Ensure a responsible adult is always present with your child in the pool.
Rule2: Dive responsibly
There are designated areas in a swimming pool which include the kids’ pool, shallow end, deep end and diving areas of the pool. It is important to teach children to remain in designated areas of the pool and avoid venturing into deep ends or restricted zones. Diving into the shallow end of the pool can prove to be dangerous and life-threatening. Diving should be limited to the designated diving zone which is marked safe for jumping. Children should also avoid jumping into the pool when someone else is swimming in the same area.
Rule 3: Follow entry and exit points
Ensure your children know the pool techniques for entering and exiting the pool. Encourage them to enter the pool using the designated steps and handrails or by gently lowering themselves into the water from the shallow areas.
Rule 4: Choose swimwear carefully
Choosing the right swimwear is crucial for children. Get them to wear swimwear that is comfortable and fits well. Baggy swimwear is a potential hazard. Opt for age-appropriate swimwear in bright colours which makes it easier for you to spot your child in the pool. Some swimwear has buoyancy features which may be useful for beginners.
Also Read | Benefits of Sports for Students and Children
Rule 5: Follow pool etiquette and guidelines
Explain to your child the hazards of running and rough play on wet decks or surfaces around the pool. They are slippery and there is a risk of slipping and sustaining injuries such as sprains, fractures or severe head injuries. Activities such as pushing, and dunking friends or playing rough could cause others to lose balance which can lead to accidents in the pool. Read out the guidelines to your children and ensure compliance which makes them responsible and mindful of their actions in and around the swimming pool area.
Rule 6: Ensure Personal Hygiene
Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for children when they enter the swimming pool. Remove dirt, lotions, that may contaminate the water. Remind your child to take regular restroom breaks to avoid any accidental contamination of the pool water. Disallow consumption of any kind of food or drinks while in the pool or swimming. Chewing gum or eating while swimming can cause severe choking. Advise children to take a break in case they are hungry or thirsty. Keep them well hydrated during the summers.
Also Read | How to choose right sport for your child
Rule 7: Take swimming lessons
Enrol your child in swimming lessons to help them perfect their swimming skills. They could start at 4 years or older. Ensure they are trained by certified instructors and are always under your supervision. Learning swimming skills and basic survival skills will build your child’s confidence in the water and teach them to handle difficult situations in the pool.
Rule 8: Ensure the presence of swimming pool safety devices
Parents must check on the safety devices available at the swimming pool. These devices are important to prevent accidents and enhance the safety features of a swimming pool. Devices such as swimming pool fences, swimming pool safety nets, swimming pool covers, rescue equipment, and visible signages protect children at various levels. They not only save the child from accidentally falling into the pool but also assist them in times of emergencies.
Also Read | Reasons Why Your Child Must Learn to Swim
Conclusion
Teaching children the most essential pool rules is a step towards ensuring their safety. As a parent, you should exercise certain vigilance and supervision by:
- Staying reachable to your child always.
- Assuring them and holding their hand when they are not yet confident about being on their own.
- Not forcing or pushing them into the pool if they resist swimming.
- Learning life-saving techniques yourself in case of emergencies.
At EuroSchool, we prioritise the safety and well-being of our students, both in the classroom and during recreational activities. When it comes to swimming pool usage, we have implemented a set of comprehensive pool rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
