POOL SAFETY

Information from http://www.poolsafety.gov/

Each year many American families encounter pool tragedies - drowning and submersion incidents. These tragedies are preventable.

In May 2009 the Commission released a report (pdf) related to pool and spa submersion incidents involving children under 5.

Each year there are nearly 300 reported drownings involving children younger than five years old. Each year there are about 3,000 emergency room-treated submersion injuries to children younger than five years old.

In addition, there have been 83 reported entrapment incidents reported to the CPSC from 1999 through 2008. Among these are eleven fatality reports, including the accident that ended Virginia Graeme Baker's life in 2002.

CPSC staff began investigating reported incidents of pool/spa suction entrapment in the 1970s. Figures from 1999 through 2008 include:

·        83 reported entrapments

·        11 fatality reports (7 residential, 4 public)

·        69 injury reports (38 residential, 21 public, 10 unknown location)

·        3 no injury reports (residential)

·        Types of entrapment

·        Hair

·        Body

·        Limb

·        Evisceration/disembowelment

·        Mechanical: Jewelry, bathing suits

Backyard and community pools are popular with children and adults of all ages but owning or operating one is a major responsibility. Take every step possible to prevent unintended injuries in and around pools and spas.

Learn about the hazard of drain entrapment and what to look for at pools and spas your family frequents. Individuals in the 5-9 year-old category had the highest frequency of entrapment reports.

Safety Tips:

·        Supervise children at all times around pools and spas. Adults should keep a constant eye on all kids in the water. Emphasize the need for constant supervision to babysitters.

·        Install a four-sided barrier, such as a fence with self-closing gates completely surrounding the pool. If the house forms the fourth side of the barrier, install alarms on doors leading to the pool area to prevent children from wandering into the pool or spa. Also install safety covers and perimeter or in-water alarms as additional layers of protection.

·        Learn to Swim and teach your children to swim. Many organizations provide swimming lessons.

·        Know how to respond:

·        Get training in basic water rescue skills, first aid, CPR

·        Have rescue and first aid equipment available at the pool

·        Keep a phone at the pool

Information from http://www.poolsafety.gov/