Sudbury Police Give Pool Safety Tips

Sudbury Police Chief Scott Nix and the Sudbury Police Department are encouraging residents to take extra safety precautions around the pool as summer approaches and temperatures rise, according to an announcement.

The American Red Cross reports that more than 200 children drown in backyard swimming pools each year. Chief Nix offers the following tips to keep the pool safe:

• Per Massachusetts law, have at least a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool and an access gate that self-closes, locks, and opens outward from the swimming area (even if you don’t have children).
• Fasten a safety cover over the pool when it is not in use, and remove ladders to further prevent access into the pool. For added safety, install a pool alarm that will sound if anyone enters the water.

• Never leave children unattended while they are near or in a pool, and make sure they have an adult to accompany them into the water. Young or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a life jacket or inflatable arm floats.

• Make sure children stay away from pool drains, pipes, or any other openings to avoid getting trapped or hurt. If a child is missing, always check the pool first.

• Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors, or anyone else who is near or uses the pool. Advise children to stay away from pool deep ends, and to always walk, never run near the pool.

• Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.

“We want people to be able to cool off and enjoy the pool this summer,” Chief Nix said in a statement. “However, the safety of our residents is our top priority so we strongly encourage people to follow the tips provided so we can all have a safe and relaxing summer this year.”

Photo Credit: Patch file photo