Safety Tips for Spas and Swimming Pools for Children
Statistics reveal that almost 400 children under 15 years old drown in spas and swimming pools for children every day, which translates to one kid daily. Of these numbers, 300 are under 5 years old. Unfortunately, 87% of these fatalities take place at residential spas and pools.
Drowning is the main cause of unintentional day for kids aged 1 to 4 years old, and sadly, each one of these cases could have been prevented.
However, it is not only about the children knowing how to swim. Several of these incidents even involve capable swimmers who got entrapped by the pool drain. There were also around 60 deaths due to electrocutions and about 50 serious shocks around and in swimming pools recorded since 1990.
But these accidents shouldn’t happen in the first place if several layers of protection are put in place. If you have a spa or pool at home or you are planning to build one soon, here are some safety measures you can take to prevent untoward incidents that may involve your own kids or those of your relatives or neighbors.
Use Automatic Pool Covers
An automatic pool cover is the easiest method to use although it is also the most expensive. Automatic pool covers are built and designed to the specific dimensions of your swimming pool and work with a mere touch of a button. These covers can cost you $6,000 and above, depending on the features, configuration, and size.
Assign a Water Watcher
Safety measures are never enough to replace adult supervision. Experts recommend designating one adult who will have the sole responsibility of watching children in spas and swimming pools for children.
This adult shouldn’t be someone busy reading, texting, or doing something else. You can assign one adult to work in shifts for 15 to 30 minutes before passing it on to another adult.
It is also important to remember that drowning in real life isn’t the same as what you can see in movies. No calling for help or splashing happens here. Children can go down the water silently and quickly.
