Preventing Injury: Keeping Children Safe Around Pools
For people that live in places like Southern California pool safety is a year-round issue. Given that 77% of pool deaths involve children age 5 or younger, it is a good reminder to take preventive measures to make resident swimming pools safe for young children.
December 18, 2012
Many people may think that pool safety during the winter months is not a big issue, but for those that live in places like Southern California pool safety is a year-round issue.Protective Measures for Residential Pools
Children account for the vast majority of pool deaths. About 77 percent of all reported swimming pool deaths involve children younger than five years old, and 84 percent of those deaths were in residential pools. There are several protective measures that can be installed in residential pools that will help families stay safe near the water.
Alarms may be installed that signal when children enter the pool area. Families can also put safety covers over then water surface so the pool is not accessible when nobody is around to supervise children. Barriers can also be installed around the pool such as fences or other physical obstacles that will block access when adults are not present.
Ensuring Everyone is Safe in the Water
One of the most important things parents can do to make sure their children are safe around the water is to enroll their children in swimming lessons, so they are comfortable around the water and know what to do if something happens. Parents should also know how to swim themselves.
CPR is also important for parents to know, especially when children are around water. Supervision is an important aspect of pool safety for children. Children should never be left unattended when they are in and around the pool. When children are visiting a friend or family member's home parents should make sure that an adult will always be present near the pool when children are close to the water.
There are also California state laws that regulate the safety of pools and the actions of pool owners to make their pools safe. The laws apply to both private, residential pools and pools open to the public. Pool owners should make sure they take steps to setup proper barriers and supervision. Pool equipment and the pool itself should also be in proper working condition. If not, children and other visitors may be at risk for injury, and pool owners may be responsible for any injuries or deaths caused.
Families of children who are injured or killed in pools face a difficult situation. On top of a tremendous amount of pain, there may be medical bills and other expenses the family must confront. A personal injury attorney can provide assistance by helping families receive the compensation they deserve.
Article provided by The McClellan Law Firm
Visit us at www.mcclellanlaw.com