Public Pool Safety Precautions

Overview

For many public pools, Memorial Day signals the start of the summer swim season. Neighborhood kids splash around, swimmers glide from one end to the other, while some prefer to stay dry and soak up the sun. Yet even with all the fun that comes with a public pool, there are safety precautions that must be taken into account. Public pools draw patrons of all swimming abilities and backgrounds. Knowing a few basic rules will ensure pool fun all summer long.

Public pools are a great way to spend the summer.
Know Your Surroundings

The most important information to have when at a public pool is knowledge of the surroundings. On the pool deck, one should know where the pool's entrances and exits are located. Where the bathrooms and showers? Where are lifeguards positioned? Where are the shallow and deep ends of the pool? Should an emergency arise, know the locations of the closest phone to call 911 and a first aid kit.

Know Your Abilities

Not everyone can be Michael Phelps, the winner of eight 2008 Olympic gold medals in swimming. Those without strong swimming skills should stay where they can touch the bottom of the pool. Hanging off the edge in the deep end is not advisable as pool ledges can be slippery when wet. When in doubt, swimmers should err on the side of caution. Floaties, while cute and definitely a swimming aid, are not flotation devices. Play it safe and stick to the shallow end or kiddie pool. Better yet, take a basic swimming course and learn to swim.
Never Swim Unattended

When choosing to go for a dip, always swim with supervision. Public pools generally have lifeguards on duty. When it comes to children, though, there is no substitute for a parent's watchful eye. Remember, drowning can occur in just seconds.

Public pools are made safer with parental supervision.
Follow the Rules

Pools are filled with water. Water is wet. Wet surfaces tend to be slippery. As a result, walk, don't run, on the pool deck. Rules at the pool are logical summations put in place for the safety of pool patrons. By following the rules and using a little common sense, public pools can be fun water playgrounds for the family.