It is alarming to hear that a large number of children die each year from drowning in pools. For families who head to hotels in the Philadelphia area, it is crucial to review pool safety tips to keep everyone safe in the water.
There are many organizations, such as the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, that suggest adding layers of protection to water-related experiences. It is noteworthy to mention that there isn’t really one single protective device or method that can save an individual from drowning. The following swimming tips apply to pools, lakes, and oceans, but bathtubs, toilets, and buckets should not be neglected either. Drowning can occur in any amount of water.
Parental Supervision is Vital
First and foremost, parental or guardian supervision is vital. A responsible adult must supervise all swimming activities, even when lifeguards are present. So yes, this may mean that you miss out on a read or a Facebook must-see thread. Your child’s life is a priority and more important. The National Drowning Prevention Alliance suggests:
- Designate a water watcher; parents or guardians should rotate the role. A water watcher should not be allowed to socialize, read, check their phones, etc. When parents rotate every 15 minutes, it is much easier to keep fresh and focused.
- Don’t rely solely on flotation devices as a substitute for supervision. Granted, floaties are meant to assist those learning how to swim, but not always to keep afloat with heads above and out of the water. The US Coast Guard does approve life jackets for this purpose, but store-bought flotation devices are not recommended substitutes.
- Infants and toddlers should always maintain an arm’s reach away from a supervising adult. Yes, that means someone must be in the pool with them.
- Learn and familiarize yourself with the signs of drowning. They can be different than what you might expect and often quiet. Use communication to keep swimmers up to speed, and if they become still or quiet, ask them a question to keep them engaged.
Investigate the Premises
Next, hotel swimming pools advise families to check the premises for safety features. Adults should look around the area for any potential water safety threats. Hotel pools in the US are most often fenced with non-climbing structures and latching gates. Kids should be taught to stay out of the pool area if they are within reach of the gates. For any hotel rooms with direct access to a pool patio, keep the doors locked to prevent a child from exiting the room to the pool. Always check the pool depth before entry, and don’t allow children to play in any water without proper supervision.
It is advisable not just for hotel pools, but in general, to teach kids how to swim smart and safely. Swim lessons have proven to be a significant help in preventing water accidents. To go a step even farther, enroll older children in a CPR class. They will learn life-saving methods to help someone in a potential drowning situation.
Additional Safety Measures
Some other hotel swimming pool safety tips include teaching kids not to run around the pool. This will prevent any slip and fall accidents. Exercise caution with children in and around hot tubs or spas. Many health and wellness organizations do not recommend that young children use hot tubs. Stay out of the water if lightning is present. Water and metal are conductors of electricity, so stay away from pools. Don’t forget sunscreen either. This will protect the skin from sunburn, which, if not properly applied, can be quite painful.
Injured at a City Swimming Pool? Call Kwartler Manus
Hotel swimming pools aim to adhere to safety protocols to protect guests and ensure the facility's overall operation. If your loved one was injured or drowned at a swimming pool, call Kwartler Manus today at 267-457-5570 to schedule a consultation with our drowning accident lawyers in Philadelphia.