Get Healthy Carson City: Stay safe around the pool

As temperatures rise and summer fun begins, pools become a popular place to cool off and relax. But it is important to remember that pool safety should always come first.

Drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 4. With a few simple steps, families can enjoy the water while keeping everyone safe.

Here are some important pool safety tips from Carson City Health and Human Services:

Secure the Pool Area

• Use pool covers when the pool is not being used. Remove ladders from above-ground pools so children cannot climb in without help.

• Install fencing that is at least five feet tall. Use self-latching gates and consider adding a pool alarm to stop unsupervised entry.

Always Watch Children Around Water

• Drowning can happen fast and often without a sound. Never leave children alone near any kind of water.

• Always assign a responsible adult to watch swimmers. That adult should stay within arm’s reach and avoid distractions like cell phones or books.

• Enroll children in swimming lessons to help them build confidence and learn water safety skills.

• Set clear pool rules: no running, no diving in shallow water, and no rough play.

Keep Safety Equipment Nearby

• Have a life ring with a rope and a pool hook close to the water in case of an emergency.

• Make sure young children and anyone who cannot swim wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.

• Water wings and other floatation toys are not safe substitutes for real life jackets.

Maintain Clean and Safe Water

• Test and maintain the pool water regularly to keep it safe:

o               Chlorine: 1–3 ppm

o               pH: 7.4–7.6

o               Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

o               Cyanuric Acid: 30–50 ppm (Over 100 ppm can weaken chlorine.)

• Store all pool chemicals in a safe place, away from children, sunlight, and water. Never mix chemicals together.

Prevent Illness from Germs

• Take a shower before swimming to help keep germs out of the pool.

• Do not swim when sick, especially with diarrhea. This can spread dangerous germs to others in the water.

Be Ready for Emergencies

• Learn CPR. Knowing how to respond in an emergency could save a life. The American Red Cross offers CPR and first aid classes for adults, children, and babies, both in-person and online. Visit www.redcross.org for details.

• Always keep a phone close by in case you need to call 911.

• Keep a first aid kit near the pool. Include items like foil emergency blankets to treat shock or help someone stay warm.

Final Reminders

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated during pool time.

• Use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful sun rays. Sunburn and dehydration can happen quickly during long days outside.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming season for all.

For information about services and programs available to you through Carson City Health and Human Services, go to gethealthycarsoncity.org, or call 775-887-2195. You can visit the CCHHS office at 900 E. Long St. in Carson City or follow CCHHS on Facebook at facebook.com/cchhs, or Instagram at GetHealthyCarsonCity.