As enjoyable as a day near the water can be, accidents can happen that could result in ending the day in an emergency room. Kids enjoy splashing around the pool, but it can be a dangerous environment if parents don't take precautions. Consult the guide below to learn how to keep your little ones safe near the pool.

How to Keep Kids Safe Near Water

1. Be Aware

When children are in or playing around a pool, it is essential for you to remain vigilant to ensure your children's safety and prevent a hospital emergency room visit. Distractions for even a minute can end in a disaster. Young children can drown in less than an inch of water. You should stay close to your children when they are playing at the edge of a pool and be no more than an arm's length away in the pool if your child slips or safety gear fails. If you can't be with your child, have another adult who can protect them in your absence.

2. Empty Water Receptacles

When done with supervised play with water buckets, containers and kiddie pools, you should empty them immediately to eliminate hazards that could send a child to an emergency room. They should be stored out of children's reach and upside down to prevent rainwater from collecting in them when they aren't in use.

3. Fence It In

If you have a pool at your home, be sure to have a tall enough fence to prevent climb-overs and locks to keep the curious out. The wall should be at least four feet tall and have gates that close and latch on their own.

4. Get Safety Certified

Be equipped with the knowledge to save lives when you are responsible for the safety of others. Take a water safety course offered by your local YMCA or other organization to learn basic water rescue skills. Knowing the proper way to rescue a drowning person can save their life and protect yours. 

Take a CPR course as well. A drowned or injured and unconscious person who does not receive resuscitation quickly can suffer permanent side effects. CPR keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the heart and brain and can keep them alive until they can get to an emergency room for additional treatment. 

If a pool accident happens and your child needs emergency medical care, please call 911 or get to Taylor Regional Hospital in Campbellsville, KY. Serving patients throughout the community, our emergency room also provides a fast track to ensure your health and well being.