Red Cross warns parents of dangers associated with inflatable pools
(Ottawa, May 15, 2006) -- Following the near-drowning of a four-year-old boy in Montreal today, the Canadian Red Cross is warning parents to use the same caution and safety measures with inflatable pools as they would with in-ground pools.
“Inflatable pools pose the same dangers as any back-yard pool, especially for young children,” said Michele Mercier, National Manager of Water Safety for the Canadian Red Cross. “Supervision and fencing must be a priority to ensure these pools result in summer fun rather than tragedy.”
The Red Cross offers the following pool safety tips:
- Make sure that children in, on and around water are alway supervised by an adult.
- Ensure that your pool is fully fenced with a self-closing, self-latching gate – this is important for all backyard pools.
- If possible, install a cover with a lock on your backyard pool.
- Check with your local municipality for by-laws regulating backyard pools.
- When not using the pool, clear all toys out of the water and away from the edge. These can often tempt children to the water’s edge or into the pool.
- Weak or non-swimmers should wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when enjoying water activities.
- Ensure you have emergency equipment including a first aid kit as well as a phone in the immediate pool area.
- Get trained! Ensure you and your children know how to swim and learn water safety by enrolling in the Red Cross Swim program at your local pool. Take a Red Cross first aid course so that you know what to do in an emergency.
“Pools can be a fun and refreshing way to enjoy the hot summer months,” said Mercier. “Taking a few moments to put these safety tips in place can ensure your family’s summer is a safe and enjoyable one.”
For more information about water safety tips and training, contact your local Red Cross office or visit Water & Boating Safety.
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Media Contact:
Alice Bradbury d’Anjou
Public Affairs
Tel.: (613 ) 740-1928
