1. Safe Kids Worldwide recommends that parents always supervise children around water and install pool fencing that completely surrounds all pools, spas, whirlpools and hot tubs. Swimming Pool Safety Fencing should be at least 5 feet high, and equipped with self closing and self latching gates.
2. Children should not be left unattended in any body of water, (tub, pool, lake, river) even if they are good swimmers, and even if they are wearing or using floatation devices. Older children, and adults should always swim with a buddy.
3. Teach children never to go near a pool drain with or without a cover, and to pin up long hair when in water. Install multiple drains in all pools, spas, whirlpools and hot tubs. This minimizes the suction of any one drain, reducing risk of death or injury.
4. Keep rescue equipment, a telephone and emergency numbers by the pool.
5. Pool alarms and pool covers can offer an extra layer of protection. However, do not rely on them to keep your kids safe; they should be used in conjunction with pool fencing and constant supervision.
6. Pay attention to open water. Be aware of undercurrents and changing waves and undertows when at the ocean or lake. ALWAYS wear an approved life jacket, regardless of age or swimming ability.
7. Do not let children dive into water unless the child has learned proper diving techniques, an adult is present, and the depth of the water is greater than 9 feet.
8. Children should learn to swim. Enroll them in swimming lessons taught by qualified instructors when they are ready, usually after age 4. If you don’t know how to swim, enroll with your kids!
9. Empty all buckets, containers and wading pools immediately after use. Store them upside-down and out of children’s reach. Also keep toilet lids shut and use toilet locks.

ADULTS & KIDS OVER THE AGE OF 13 SHOULD
LEARN INFANT AND CHILD CPR