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Pools
This page was reviewed or revised on Tuesday, February 7, 2017 9:06 AM
The Facts
- Drowning is the second leading cause of preventable death for children under 10 years of age.
- Backyard pools continue to be the #1 setting where children under 5 years of age most often drown
- Most of these victims are alone - often during a momentary absence or lapse of supervision
- For half of private pool fatalities there was either no gate (29%) or the gate was neither self-closing nor self-latching (22%)
- Children aged 1 to 4 are most at risk because they are mobile, curious and require continuous supervision by an adult
Setup a safe backyard pool environment
Check List:
Adult Supervision
- Adults must be present and close to the pool, ready to assist at any moment
- Adults must stay within sight and reach of children when in and around the pool
- Do not allow any distraction to interfere with constant supervision
- Wear lifejackets - children should wear lifejackets when around the pool if they are under 5 or if they are not strong swimmers (no matter what age)
Pool Fence
- Build a 4-sided pool fence, which prevents access to the pool from the home
- Check with your local municipality to find out what by-law requirements will apply to your property
Self-closing and self-latching gates
- Pool gate should be fully closed at all times
- Gate should automatically close and latch itself with release mechanism at the top of the gate, out of reach of small children
Safety Equipment
- Safety equipment such as a flotation ring should be poolside and easily accessible
- Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim
Resources:
Parachute Canada - Preventing Injuries. Saving Lives
Brochure - Protect Your Family by the Pool
How to Choose a Lifejacket