It is alarming to hear that a large number of children die each year from drowning in pools. For families that head out to hotels within the Philadelphia area, it is crucial to review pool safety tips to keep everyone safe in the water.
There are many organizations like the National Drowning Prevention Alliance that suggest adding layers of protection to water 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 are common to 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 needs to supervise all swimming activities even when there are lifeguards 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 to:
- Designate a water watcher- parents or guardians should rotate roles as water watchers. 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 strictly rely on floatation devices as a replacement 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 floatation devices are not a recommended substitute.
- 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 as a way to keep up with swimmers and if they are still or become quiet ask them a question to keep them engaged.
Investigate the Premises
Next, Philadelphia hotel swimming pools advise families to scope out or investigate the premise for safety mechanisms. Adults should look around the area for any potential water safety threats. Hotel pools in the US are most of the time fenced with non-climbing structures with 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 that have direct access to a pool patio, keep the doors locked to make sure a child does not exit the room for the pool. Always check the depth of the pool before entry and don’t allow for children to play in any form of water without proper supervision.
It is advisable not just for Philadelphia hotel pools, but in general to teach kids how to swim smart and safely. Swim lessons have proven to be a huge helping point in preventing accidents in the water. 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 to follow address teaching kids to not run around a pool. This will prevent any slip and fall accidents. Exercise caution with children in and around hot tubs or spas. There are many health and wellness organizations that do not recommend small children to enter 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 if at all, can be quite painful.
Injured at a City Swimming Pool? Call Kwartler Manus
Philadelphia hotel swimming pools aim to adhere to safety protocols for the protection of guests and the overall operation of the facility. If your loved one was injured or drowned at a Philadelphia swimming pool, call Kwartler Manus today at 267-457-5570 to schedule a consultation.