There may be no activity more synonymous with summer fun than the “splish, splash” of swimming in a backyard pool. Unfortunately, however, there are hazards lurking in and around most pools that families often overlook. In order to keep pool safety top of mind, American Leak Detection is offering people tips to prevent pool-related injuries. Whether you have a pool and spa or your family enjoys cooling off in a community pool, this information shouldn’t be missed.
While people of all ages and sizes are susceptible to the dangers of faulty pool drains, young children tend to be at the highest risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than one in four drowning victims are children age 14 and younger. For every child who has died from drowning, another four have received emergency care for nonfatal submersion injuries.
Take the following preventative measures before allowing swimmers to enter their pools:
- Replace old flat drain covers and never use a pool or spa with a missing or broken drain cover.
- For public pools, install anti-vortex drain covers. A simple retrofit to install anti-entrapment covers will protect both children and adults from body and hair entrapment in the suction outlets.
- Have a professional regularly inspect the pool or spa for entrapment or entanglement hazards. Ask them to clearly mark the location of the electrical cut-off switch for the pool or spa pump.
- Install a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) to automatically shut off a pump if a blockage is detected.
- If someone is trapped against a drain, immediately turn off the pump. Pry a hand between the drain and the person’s body to break the seal instead of trying to pull the person away from the powerful suction.
The summer season is a carefree time of year, but that does not mean that people should take a carefree approach to proper pool maintenance.
National Water Safety Month is set for May 2009, organized by three leading trade organizations.