When you have a swimming pool, you want to make memories to last a lifetime.  However, owning a swimming pool means responsibility, not only keeping it clean, but it is a better idea to have safety supervision skills.

It is important to be alert like a lifeguard.  Below are some suggestions that can save a life.

1. Learn CPR – Not only is CPR helpful around the pool but for those who suffer a heart attack anywhere.
2. Rescuing Skills – Pulling someone out of the water is not easy and not safe unless you have rescue skills and equipment.  Having a ring buoy or a reaching pole is better than jumping in the water.  Have a rescue plan for providing help and assisting an injured or struggling swimmer.
3. Have First Aid Equipment – It is very important to have a first aid kit but also important to learn how to handle neck or spinal cord injuries.  Burns and scrapes caused by rough plaster are also common in a swimming pool.
4. Become a Human Scan – Constant scanning of the swimming pool while supervising is standard practice.  You cannot take your eyes off of the area.
5. Take a Break – Taking a 15-minute break per hour helps to recharge and relax.
6. Recognizing Risk Patterns – Keeping an eye on swimmers can determine whether they can struggle in the water.  Drowning is often silent for swimmers of all ages.  Be ready for a rescue if a swimmer is underwater for longer than 15 seconds or if body movements are frantic or very still.
7. Establish Pool Rules – Set safe and reasonable rules for all users to follow: a) Avoid extreme jumping from a slide, fence, roof, etc., as well as diving into shallow water; b) Avoid hyperventilating.  That is a condition where the body runs out of oxygen, resulting in a person passing out and drowning; c) Don’t allow running around the swimming pool.  Some of the most common pool injuries are slips and falls; d) Drinking glasses are an accident ready to happen.  Use plastic cups instead; e) Alcohol and swimming are a bad combination.  It can deter a swimmer’s sense of distance and feel disoriented; f) Never swim alone.  Have an adult supervising the swimming pool.

Accidents don’t always happen by chance, and they are often preventable.  No flotation device is 100% security.  It is imperative the constant supervision for the safety of all swimmers.

Call Ohana Pool & Spa for an inspection of your Maui swimming pool.  Our services include weekly swimming pool cleaning, inspections, chemicals, water testing, repairs, maintenance, plaster and resurfacing of your existing Maui swimming pool.