Pool safety tips following drowning of seven-year-old in Bloubosrand

Following the drowning of a seven-year-old boy in Bloubosrand on 28 May, Arrive Alive provided some safety tips to prevent drowning incidents at local pools or at home.

According to Arrive Alive, most drowning incidents occur in residential swimming pools when children are left unsupervised.

Check them out:

1. Supervise children constantly. Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm’s reach to provide active supervision.
2. Parents should avoid distractions when children are near water to allow for full attention.
3. Even strong swimmers need adult supervision. Insist on life jackets for children.
4. Parents should not only supervise but also advise children on safety rules in and around the pool.
5. Children should not be allowed to run on slippery surfaces as it is dangerous.
6. Stay away from drains, filters and water intakes. Loose hair or clothing can get tangled in these, possibly trapping a child under water.
7. Teach children to swim. Most children can learn to swim at an early age, however, this does not necessarily prevent a child from drowning.
8. Remove toys from the pool as a child may fall into the water trying to retrieve a toy.

Do you have other safety tips to follow in order to prevent a child from drowning? Share your views with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page.