SPATA (The Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association) is encouraging all pool users to play safe when in any swimming pool environment and avoid any water danger. Swimming is an easy and fun way for families to spend time together and it's a great way to encourage children to be sporty and keep fit from a young age. However, being more active in the pool also means being more safety conscious.
When enjoying a pool, ensure you are swimming safely, whether it's in your back garden or on holiday abroad.
Suggestions for safety in and around the pool:
- Learn to swim
- Always supervise children in and around the pool
- Do not dive into water that is less than 1.5 metres deep
- Ensure family and friends know what to do in an emergency
- Never run around the swimming pool
Five Essential Safety Items for Children:
- Buoyancy aids designed to give a degree of independence, but under strict supervision. Available as arm bands, swim vests and float boards.
- Baby swim seats let the baby sit properly supported in the water and able to kick freely.
- Costumes with pockets contain removable floats designed for children 30 months and over.
- Swim shoes protect children's feet from slipping on wet floor or stubbing toes against the edge of the pool.
- One-piece water suits for children, made from an ultra violet protective fabric, will help to provide young skin with a protection factor of 50+ wet or dry.
