10 Pool Safety Rules For Kids

During the warmer months, the patio, deck, or backyard becomes the place where the kids play from dawn to dusk, and parents hang out and relax - especially when there is a swimming pool or spa involved. What a wonderful concept!

Since we're out there so much, we need to have a pool safety plan in place to keep young children safe. These 10 pool safety rules will help ensure everyone has fun in the sun - and water - safely.

Rule #1: Adult Supervision is Required

Kids under age 14 can swim or use the jacuzzi only when an adult is there to supervise. If several adults are present, designate one of them to watch the children for a set amount of time, and then roate responsibilities.

This technique can help prevent lapses in supervision. All kids should be supervised when in or near a pool, even if they're competent swimmers. Accidents happen.

Rule #2:  Don't Just Dive In

Head-first dives into the pool are not allowed. Jump in feet first, or slide down the pool slide feet-first only. It's a safety thing. In fact, for basic water safety, don't dive into the swimming pool at all.

Backyard pools aren't deep enough to make this fun but dangerous water-entry safe at home. Instead, encourage kids to jump into the swimming pool feet first.

Rule #3: No Glass Allowed in the Pool Area

No glass allowed for the kiddies outside, near the pool or spa area. Wet hands, like wet feet, slip up every now and again. Broken glass and bare feet are a terrible combination. Limit glasses to grown-ups only, or ban them outside around the swimming pool altogether.

Rule #4: Use a Pool Safety Cover

A pool without a fence is a drowning hazard for children. Put up a barrier that's at least four feet high, with child-proof latches. Alarms on all doors that lead to the pool can also help. Pool covers give another layer of protection. Keep the controls hidden away. Use a pool safety cover when not in use. If you don't already have one, now is a great time to get one.

Rule #5: You Must Be At Least 6 Years Old to Jacuzzi

No infants or toddlers allowed in the jacuzzi or hot tub. You must be at least six years old. The water's just too hot for younger kids to go in safely.

Rule #6:  Keep the Jacuzzi Temperature Below 104 F.

Keep the jacuzzi temperature at or below 104 degrees F for everyone's safety, regardless of age. Consider getting a floating pool and spa thermometer to make it easy to confirm the water's fine before wading in.

Rule #7:  Install Pool Safety Drain Covers

Make sure your pool or spa has safety-compliant drain covers. Unsure? Ask your pool service company if you're unsure. 

Rule #8:  Walk - Don't Run 

No running or roughhousing around the pool and spa. Only walking is allowed. As grownups know, wet feet can easily slip when running, and the tile or concrete surrounding a pool and spa is less than forgiving.

Rule #9: No Rolling Toys Allowed

No rolling toys allowed in the pool area. The only kids to using such toys are young ones - those most prone to backyard pool accidents. Keep these two separate from one another.

Rule #10:  Don't Leave Without Saying Good-Bye

No exiting the yard and pool area without letting a parent know where you're going. And who you are going with.