Water Safety
Once you have childproofed your home, you will realize that the great outdoors presents a whole new set of problems. When outdoors, babies or toddlers should never be left unsupervised especially if there is a water: a hot tub, swimming pool, ornamental garden pond, or even a kiddy pool. Always follow strict water safety rules:
- Swimming pools should be equipped with appropriate life-saving devices.
- Be aware: pool covers do not provide the necessary safety that a fenced-in pool area provides.
- Do not rely on flotation devices to protect your child- Top heavy toddlers may not be able to flip onto their backs or get their face out of the water even when wearing a life-vest.
- Children of all ages and swimming abilities still need adult supervision.
- No running by the pool.
- Small children should wear safety devices the entire time they are in the pool area not just while in the water.
- Children should not be allowed to stand on the edge of an adult pool and get things out of or scoop out water.
- Always remove toys, floats, and so on from the pool after use.
- Teach children that they are not allowed in the pool or pool area without an adult
- Child adult ratio should be: one adult for every three children.
- If pool is over 5 feet deep, one adult should know lifesaving techniques.
- Make sure all latches are in working order and that your child cannot open.
