NC Fire promotes pool safety and drowning prevention

FALLBROOK – Temperatures are beginning to soar in preparation for summer and that means if residents are not at the beach, it’s time to hit the swimming pool. But before parents and children jump in, the firefighters from the North County Fire Protection District would like to share a few tips to help make sure everyone is safe.

Drowning is a leading cause of death among children, including infants and toddlers. Most infant drownings occur in bathtubs and buckets. Toddlers between one and four years most commonly drown in swimming pools. It is important to know that children can drown in even one inch of water.

The district's pool safety program is a resource to help residents with creating a safe environment in and around backyard pools and to decrease the incidence of drowning-related calls.

Fire engines and prevention personnel will be carrying and distributing pool safety checklists to residents in the district that have pools, as well as preschools and daycares.

Pool safety is as easy as A, B, C, D:

1. Adult supervision should always be present when kids are in or near the pool. During parties or gatherings, a designated "Water Watcher" should always be present.
2. Barriers such as fencing and self-latching, child-proof gates should be in place.
3. CPR trained persons should be present and a cell phone or landline should be immediately accessible for emergencies.
4. Devices to help someone in trouble should be available like life rings or hooks. Use of approved flotation devices;

Additional safety information includes:

• Removing and storing all pool toys after use
• Providing steps or ladders at each end of the pool
• Keeping the water level at least 3 inches below the pool deck to provide a hand hold
• Store pool chemicals away from the pool area
• Keep chairs and ladders away from the pool area fencing
• Provide for an unobstructed view of the pool from windows

For more information on pool safety, visit www.ncfire.org.