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Last Updated: Nov 14, 2008 - 12:49:26 PM |
Is it possible that we could go through this summer season without a pool-related drowning in Chesterfield County? I believe that the answer is yes, but it will take a concerted effort on the part of parents/guardians, lifeguards, and pool owners to accomplish this. Here are some of the responsibilities of each:
Pool Owners
Whether this is a public or a private pool, safety rules should be established for anyone who uses this pool. Rules should be posted in all languages of those who utilize the pool.
When not being used, access to the pool should be prevented by fencing, locked gates, and motion lights or alarm systems.
Unless the pool is set up for diving, no diving should be allowed.
Alcohol and swimming pools are a combination for disaster. I will leave it at that.
Parents/Guardians
Your child must be watched at all times. Do not expect the lifeguards to be your babysitters.
Teach your children how to swim, or enroll them in a swimming class through the YMCA, American Red Cross, or any other certified aquatic agency.
Lifeguards
Be alert while on your post. Some lifeguards are tasked with watching a large number of people, which requires that you must be focused on your job.
Know your job, and be ready to carry it out. Practice your Emergency Plan.
For additional information, go to: http://www.chesterfield.gov/PublicSafety/Fire/F&LS%20Internet/community_programs.asp. Once you get to the page, click on Bridging The Gap Between Lifeguards & EMS.
There are more things that can be done to prevent a pool-related drowning. I hope that this will get you thinking. You will notice that I did not include fire & EMS in the mix of those with responsibilities. If we never have to be called, then most likely, a drowning has never occurred. Of the drowning cases that I have been to in my career, all of them could have been prevented. Enjoy your summer.
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