Backyard Pool Safety

NEWMARKET - The private pool is a wonderful source of activity and enjoyment. It also poses a serious risk for diseases, injury and even death. According to the Canadian Red Cross Society, "the unprotected single-unit home pool is the most important environmental hazard for toddlers of 1 - 4 years of age."

For your family's protection, York Region Health Services recommends following these safety procedures:

Safety tips for parents

·         Adults and children should never swim alone                         

·         Keep toys away from pool to prevent falls into the pool

·         Learn to swim and enrol your children in swimming classes

·         Learn Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

·         Reduce sun exposure

Safety tips for pool owners

·         Provide safety equipment close to the pool such as a telephone, ring buoys, reaching pole

and first aid kit

·         Install a fence around your pool

·         Place tables and chairs away from the fence

·         Install a black disk of 150 mm maximum at the deepest point of the pool to assess water clarity

·         Maintain proper levels of the disinfectant and maintain your filter

·         Store and handle chemicals in a safe manner

·         A pool cover does not provide protection from drowning

For more information on this or any other health-related issue, please call York Region Health Services Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.

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Contact:            Wendy Lewis, York Region Corporate Communications Services

905-830-4444 ext. 1238

wendy.lewis@region.york.on