Articles Posted in Diving and Swimming Pool Accident

With summer fast approaching, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently urged parents to follow several safety tips that can help prevent pool and spa accidents. Since January of this year, there have been reports of 37 drowning and 38 near-drowning incidents reported in the United States, most of which could have been avoided by following CPSC safety guidelines.

According to the CPSC, water safety can be classified into three categories: 1) Behavioral – actions that are associated with action and personal responsibility; 2) Equipment – actions that are associated with having proper barriers and safety equipment to prevent accidents, such as fences and drain covers; and 3) Knowledge – actions that are associated with knowing how to swim, knowing CPR, and other water safety-related activities. Safety tips encompassing all three categories should be followed.

The CPSC recommends that pool and spa owners adhere to the following safety tips to keep themselves, their family, and their visitors safe:

Pool parties are a great way to enjoy the warm summer weather. Adding a diving board or pool slide increases the fun. However, there is always a risk of injury when using these types of equipment. Follow a few safety tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe when diving or using pool slides this summer.

First, make sure the diving board or pool slide is installed properly. Neither a board nor a slide should shift or wobble when you climb on it. Inspect your diving board or pool slide regularly to make sure it has not formed any cracks and there is no loose or rusted hardware. If you find cracks, loose hardware, or rust, do not use the diving board or pool slide and do not let anyone else use them until they are fixed.

Second, never use a diving board or pool slide while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and do not let anyone else use them if they are intoxicated.