Safety Rules at Abercrombie, ND Community Pools

by Stephani Cook

Every Abercrombie, ND parent wants a fun summer experience for their child, but for small children especially, the pool can be a cause of worry for many parents. This summer when the kids appear with their bathing suits and towels, you can put yourself at ease by following these summer safety guidelines and teaching your children to be considerate participants at the community pool!

Before You Get There: 1. Do not pack food to eat at the pool. Snacking before swimming is a bad idea, and eating, drinking, and smoking are not permitted in the pool area.

2. Public pools recommend rinsing off before entering the water to help maintain a clean pool.

3. If you have been experiencing symptoms of a cold it is best to avoid a public pool so you do not spread your germs to others. The same goes for any sores or open wounds that are healing.

4. Leave your pets at home. Bringing any animals will only distract you from watching the kids playing in the pool.

5. Don't forget the sunscreen. Applying a layer of sunscreen before going swimming will prevent long-term damage.

6. Swimwear must be appropriate. Help your child choose a bathing suit, as clothes are not to be worn into the water.

7. Don't take floating toys or other water gear to the pool.

8. If you decide to bring an infant into the water make sure to use a life jacket instead of a floating toy, and keep them away from the rowdier parts of the pool. Also, make sure that they are wearing swim diapers if they are not potty trained.

At The Pool: 1. When you arrive at the pool, store your belongings in a locker to keep them safe while you relax.

2. Children under 10 should have an adult with them at the pool.

3. Make sure your child is in the pool that is suitable for them. Keep inexperienced children out of the deep end and out of the way of more advanced swimmers.

4. Be aware of the lifeguard on duty.

5. No ducking or splashing.

6. No Horseplay. Talk to your kids about playing roughly with other children, running by the pool, and diving from undesignated areas as these can result in avoidable injuries.

7. The best way to ensure your child's safety in the pool is to help them to feel comfortable in the water. Sign your child up for a swim class at a young age. Not only will they learn more about pool safety, but they will also get exercise while building self-confidence.

8. Practice with your child to improve their swimming skills. This is a fun and healthy way to spend time with your child over the summer!

9. Most Importantly! Always supervise when younger children are in the pool. Getting distracted by something as brief as a phone call could result in an accidental drowning. Even children who know how to swim should be supervised by an adult at all times.

For more information visit http://www.ci.ventura.ca.us/depts/comm_serv/aquatics/rules.asp and http://www.laparks.org/dos/aquatic/pdf/poolrules.pdf.