Pool With Safety Fence

May is National Water Safety Month

In Ask the Pool Experts by Platinum Pools

Now that Summer is upon us, let’s look at National Water Safety Month.  It is a yearly campaign created by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance with support from the World Waterpark Association, the National Recreation and Park Association, and the American Red Cross.

History

In June 2003, the World Waterpark Association established the National Water Safety Week.  Later in May 2007, the National Recreation and Park Association joined the WWA to establish a whole month due to swimming activity increasing.  That was the official birth of National Water Safety Month.

Since the foundation, organizations like the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance and the American Red Cross have joined as key partners.

Take a Pledge for Water Safety

Taking a pledge for water safety is joining the movement for water safety.  Research shows that we are more successful in achieving goals when we join others.  Take the pledge, spread the word, and become an advocate in your community today.

“I am a Safe Swimmer” Pledge:

  • I pledge never to swim alone.
  • I pledge never to play or swim near drains or suction cups.
  • I promise always to dive feet first.
  • I pledge to follow the pool rules.

Use Layers of Protection In & Around Water

  • Become a layer of protection for your loved ones by following these recommendations from the American Red Cross:
  • Adults should stay with children, even if lifeguards are present.
  • Be a “water guardian” – give your full attention to the children you supervise and avoid distractions, including cell phones.
  • Teach your children always to ask permission when they go in the water.
  • Children, inexperienced swimmers, and boaters should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
  • Take special precautions for the water environment you are in, such as:
    • Enclose pools and spas with appropriate barriers, including a four-sided fence separating the water from the house.
    • Always swim at the beach in an area patrolled by lifeguards.

Know the Risks & Take Sensible Precautions – Even If You’re a Strong Swimmer

  • Always swim with a buddy.
  • Before swimming, diving, or supervising swimmers, do not use alcohol or drugs (including certain prescription medications).
  • Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or fishing, even if you do not plan to go in the water.

Awareness

If you are a consumer or owner of a pool, spa, or hot tub, this free, in-depth water safety information will help you enjoy your water activities more this Summer.

  • Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Consumer Pool & Water Safety Brochures & Guides

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance offers a series of free water safety brochures and guides with information on everything you need to know about safely using your pool, hot tub, or spa.

  • American Red Cross Water Safety Resources

The American Red Cross believes that consumers who improve their water literacy, including swimming knowledge and water skills, can make water activities safer.  And just as much fun.  Find swim lessons, learn how to prioritize water safety, learn what to do in an emergency, and why you should advocate for water safety.

  • How to Teach Children to #BeWaterAware

Engaging children about water safety when all they want to do is get in the pool.  That’s why we created these coloring and activity books to teach kids about water safety in a fun way.

  • SplashZone Coloring Book – This coloring book, for children ages 4 to 7, teaches water safety in a fun way.*
    • Longfellow’s WHALE Tales Program – What’s better than learning about swim and water safety?  Learn from a fun whale named Longfellow.  These short, educational videos teach children everything from why it’s important to swim in pairs to how too much sun is no fun.*

*Source – American Red Cross