FROM THE POOL DECK with Vincent Munyeza
Introduction and overview
Did you know that there are an estimated 80 000 to 120 000 pools in Zimbabwe? Whether you have a pool or small children in your home, family or social circle, almost every Zimbabwean will at some stage need to both know about pool safety.This Best Practice document and guideline has been created purely as a free service to the community and is our way of giving something back. Its objective is to equip parents, pool owners and responsible adults with the knowledge needed to make the right choices for their children when it comes to pools and avoiding drowning related tragedies. If just one child’s life is saved because someone took the time to read this, then we have reached our goal.
More guidelines for safe swimming and drowning
- Thermal pool covers and leaf nets are not considered a safe barrier for children.
- Don’t leave toys in or near a pool, children will be tempted to retrieve them.
- Teach your children what to do when they see another child in trouble — to call for help and not to try help the victim themselves as this could put him/her at risk too.
- Never leave a child unattended near a pool. Take a cordless phone outside in case you get a phone call, or let the call go unanswered.
- If you are pregnant, order your Power Plastics Solid Safety Cover now, you’ll have enough to worry about after the birth.
- Teach your child to swim fully clothed and with shoes on.
- Chose a swimming coach wisely. If you’re not comfortable with techniques being used, trust your gut instinct. Negative experiences in early childhood can have long term impact. If your child develops a fear of water, don’t ignore this l a child who panics is at great risk.
- If your child is ill or on sedative medicine, do not allow swimming and never allow swimming after dark especially for the little ones. ones
- If your child has suddenly gone quite or wondering off, check the pool fist. Even a minute can make the difference between survival, irreversible brain damage and death.
- Be a role model, children tend to copy adults so don’t be a clown and ban hooligan antics from your pool. Never allow an adult who has been drinking or is under the influence of sedative medication to supervise children in or near a pool.
- Discourage walking or playing on any pool cover. Fit sensor beams if your child tends to flout the rules.
- Don’t let pool levels drop. Keep the pool topped up allows for small arms to easily grab the edge if needed.
- Never underestimate the scope of peer pressure when it comes to risk taking. If you see other children being excessively foolish in the pool, chat to the parents. Children don’t enjoy teasing and are one lot who often will jump in the fire if their friends tell them it is a good idea.
- Discourage your dogs from swimming. Children and pets in a pool are not a good mix.
- Teach your children how to retrieve objects from the bottom of the pool to build water confidence and teach breathing techniques.
- Even if you don’t have children, it is still necessary to consider safety for visitors.
Families living in residential complexes with a communal pool should insist that their body corporate install pool covers.
Comments (1)
Show/Hide comments
Write comment
Show/Hide comment form