2 Places To Protect Your Kids From Drowning
Children love the water, which is why we are going to review 2 places to protect your kids from drowning. These articles are not always the most fun to read, but if you take they time, these reminders are well worth it. Here in Florida, the weather is great for swimming year round, which means plenty of time to swim. Here are 4 places you need to help protect your kids from drowning.
Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs
Install a Fence
If you read our last article you know that the top item on your list to do around your pool is to install a fence. If you have a fence, test it out. Check out all the latches, gates and connections. Make sure its in good repair just like the day you purchased it. If the fence has any sag to it, or isn’t as tight as it should be, please get is checked out by a professional like the pros at Baby Barrier. We even take trade ins on your old fence.
Beware of Drains
You need to know where the drains are around your pool and have them checked out. Depending on your pool, there are a variety of things you can do to make sure your drain won’t suck up small arms, legs and hair. There are specially designed drain covers and vacuum-release systems that prevent anyone from getting stuck.
Keep Emergency Tools Ready
This could include a life ring with a rope, a reaching pole or shepherd’s crook. Any time you are around the pool, keep a phone close by in the event that you need to make an emergency call. While you are trying to protect your kids from drowning, make sure that by keeping these items handy, they are not in the way and create a trip hazard.
Ponds, Lakes, Rivers and Oceans
Swimming in these natural oasis can pose their own problems. They can be inherently unpredictable. The depths can change, currents can move you around and the weather can turn quickly. Here are some reminders when swimming in these areas.
Always Feet First – Know Your Surroundings
When getting into any unfamiliar body of water it should be feet first. Do your best to check the depth, temperature and any potential hazards before jumping in. A busted up toe or foot is better than a broken neck. Also stay in areas designated for swimming. At the beach swimming out of these area could put you in danger with piers or large rock jetties.
Life Jackets
Many people in Florida have boats they take out in the ocean, lakes, harbors and bays. It’s tempting to jump off the boat to cool off. Of course there is nothing wrong with this if you are careful. Stay clear from the back of the boat and the motor area. Even with the motor not running, the blades on the propellers are sharpe and could seriously injury you. It’s a good practice to put on a life jacket before jumping overboard. You can never be too safe.
