The sun is blazing, the birds are chirping, and the kids are clamouring for one thing: the pool! Summer is here, and for Australian families, that means backyard splash-alicious fun. But before the floaties and sunscreen come out, remember: pool safety is paramount, especially when little ones are involved.
So, let’s dive into some essential pool safety tips for parents this summer:
- Designate a “water watcher” whenever children are near or in the water. This means putting down your phone, turning off distractions, and focusing solely on supervising the little ones. Remember, even the strongest swimmers can get into trouble in a split second. Rotate the “water watcher” role among adults present to ensure everyone gets a break while maintaining constant supervision.
- Enrol your child in swimming lessons as early as possible. The Royal Life Saving Society of Australia recommends lessons starting from six months old. This not only equips them with essential swimming skills but also boosts their confidence and understanding of water safety.
- Teach your child to always swim with a buddy, even if they’re confident swimmers. This way, they can look out for each other and raise the alarm if needed.
- Install a secure fence around your pool with a self-closing and latching gate, make sure you adhere to the Queensland pool safety regulations.
- Keep the pool gate locked when not in use, even for “just a minute” trips. A moment of inattention can be all it takes for an unsupervised child to wander in.
- Make sure children wear properly fitting life jackets, especially those who are non-swimmers or new to the water. Choose brightly coloured life jackets that are approved by the Australian Standards Office (AS/NZS 1768).
- Remove toys and inflatables from the pool when it’s not in use. These can entice children to climb over fences or reach for them, potentially leading to falls.
By following these simple tips and prioritising constant supervision, you can help ensure that your family has a safe and splashtastic summer filled with happy memories!
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Additional Resources (Queensland specific):
- The Queensland Government website: https://www.qld.gov.au/housing/buying-owning-home/pool-safety
- The Queensland Building and Construction Commission: https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/your-property/swimming-pools/pool-safety-standard
- Royal Life Saving Society of Australia: https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/
- Surf Life Saving Australia: https://sls.com.au/
- Kids Alive: https://kidsalive.com.au/