How To Keep Kids Safe at the Pool

In 2011, firefighters in Pinellas County responded to 14 drownings and near downings of children under the age of 5, according to Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

Here are some things you can do to keep kids safe in pool areas-

• Keep an especially close watch on little kids. Palm Harbor Fire Rescue spokesperson Liz Monforti says that males under the age of 5 make up the highest number of drownings each year.
• Have a plan when you're at a pool that does not have a lifeguard. "In a community pool setting without a lifeguard, a single adult can be designated as the "lifeguard" whose only responsibility is to watch the pool. No cell phone, no conversations, no distractions," said Monforti. Parents can take turns and even designate themselves with a "Water Watcher Lanyard" that is provided for free by Florida Safe Pools-Safe Kids Coalition of Pinellas County, or parents can contact Palm Harbor Fire Rescue to request a lanyard. For more information call (727) 784-0454.
• Palm Harbor Fire Rescue also offers CPR classes once a month. 
• Palm Harbor Fire Rescue also has a free "Pool Safety Evaluation" program for residents. Fire Rescue staff will come to your home, check out your pool area and suggest things you can do to keep you and your family safe. For more information call (727) 784-0454.
• Be sure to check out the Florida Safe Pools Website