Now that we are entering the hot, sticky months of our South Florida summer, it’s that time when kids and adults alike will be jumping into 
- Make Sure the Kids Have Swimming Lessons
If your kids are growing up in South Florida, it’s important that they are strong swimmers! We have ample opportunities to get into the water here, which means that your kids may be jumping in whether you like it or not. It’s a good idea to enroll them in lessons as soon as you can. The earlier they start swimming and the more practice they get, the stronger swimmers they will be.
- Learn CPR
If you own a pool, it’s a good idea to know how to administer CPR in case of an emergency. All older children and adults in the family should take a class and be prepared in the event of an unfortunate emergency.
- Educate Your Kids on the Dangers of Horseplay
Playing in the pool can be great fun, but it can also be dangerous. Educate your kids on the dangers of drowning and how seemingly innocent activities like dunking someone under the water can lead to a deadly result. Make sure the kids know the signs of someone struggling for air and are prepared to stop playing if someone shows the signs of drowning. The goal is to not take the fun out of swimming but always to be aware of the safety of others.
- Secure Your Pool
If you are a pool owner, then you need to make sure that your pool is secured. This means that it should have a fence around it at all times. A fence can save a child from an unintentional drowning by falling in while unsupervised. It may not be aesthetically as pleasing, but a pool fence will make you a safer homeowner.
- Do Not Leave Kids Unattended
When the kids are in the pool or near a pool, never leave them unattended. Always make sure there is an adult watching carefully. A drowning can happen within seconds, so it’s crucial that kids are never left alone in a pool or around a pool.
- No Alcohol
Make it a rule that no one consumes alcohol while in the pool or watching others in the pool. Alcohol can impair even the best swimmers, so it’s better to refrain until after swimming activities are completed.
Pool Safety Practices Can Help You Avoid a Tragic Accident and a Lawsuit
Not only are you putting lives at risk if you are not focused on safety when people are in your pool, but you may also be putting yourself at risk of a lawsuit. Serious pool accidents often cause oxygen deprivation resulting in brain damage, which can be life changing for the victims and their families. It’s important to keep in mind that not only can traumatic injuries or even death occur, but that strict liability attaches to pool operators and owners.
At Panter, Panter, & Sampedro, we want all families to be safe throughout the summer. Have fun but remember to take swimming seriously, and practice pool safety. If you are injured in an accident, contact us to request a free consultation at (305) 662-6178.
