As frightening as these statistics are, drowning is preventable. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are several preventative measures parents can take to reduce the possibility of an accidental drowning. Grandparents and babysitters should also be aware of child safety measures and know CPR. Never leave a child unsupervised in or around a pool, even for a minute.
Never leave a child alone in the pool area to answer the phone or do some other errand. If you must leave the pool, take your child with you and remember to lock the gate. Keep your eyes on your child at all times.
All children should learn to swim especially if you live near water or have access to a pool. Your local YMCA or Red Cross offers swimming classes.
Do not depend upon personal flotation devices such as "water wings" or toys to protect your child. These devices can lose air or slip out underneath the child. You should not depend upon the fact that your child has had swimming lessons. Kids panic and forget necessary training.
Limited access to a pool is mandatory in many states. A four to five foot fence with a locked gate surrounding the pool may be required. Even when not bound by law, if you have a pool, you should install a fence and gate.
A pool cover and a door or gate alarm can be life saving. This adds another layer of protection.
Never dive into a pool that is not at least 9 feet deep. A serious head or neck injury could occur if you should strike the bottom.
Keep toys especially those with wheels away from the pool as it is too easy to drive a tricycle over the edge of a pool.
Learn CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and post CPR instructions near the pool.
Keep rescue equipment such as a pole, rope, or flotation device near the pool.
Have a phone with emergency numbers posted near the pool.