Don’t Underestimate the Kiddie Pool

Summer is the perfect time to break out the kiddie pool and let your little ones splash around. While kiddie pools might seem harmless due to their size, it’s crucial to remember that the same safety precautions you take with a big pool should also be applied to kiddie pools. At Baby Otter Swim School, we want to ensure that your child enjoys a safe and fun summer. Here’s why kiddie pool safety is just as important as big pool safety.

It’s easy to assume that a kiddie pool doesn’t pose the same risks as a larger pool, but this is a dangerous misconception. Drowning can happen in just a few inches of water, and children should never be left unattended in any body of water, no matter how shallow. Always keep an eye on your child and stay within arm’s reach at all times.

 

Keep Safety Barriers in Place

Just like with a big pool, having a fence around your kiddie pool area is a smart safety measure. This prevents children from wandering into the pool unsupervised. A fence or other barrier provides an additional layer of protection, giving you peace of mind that your child is safe even if you step away for a moment.

Stay Within Arm’s Reach

The importance of staying within arm’s reach cannot be overstated. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and being close by ensures you can quickly respond if your child needs help. This rule applies to kiddie pools just as much as it does to larger pools.

Choose a Soft Surface

Placing your kiddie pool on a soft surface, like grass, is important for safety. Grass provides a softer landing if a child slips or falls, reducing the risk of injury. Avoid placing the pool on hard surfaces like concrete, which can be hazardous if a child takes a tumble.

Drain the Pool Immediately After Use

Kiddie pools should be drained immediately after use. This practice not only keeps the pool clean and healthy for the next use but also eliminates the risk of accidental drownings when the pool is not being supervised. An empty pool is a safe pool.

The Importance of Vigilance

Even though a kiddie pool is smaller, the dangers are still present. As summer approaches and your children spend more time outdoors, maintaining vigilance is key. Ensure they follow the same safety rules you would enforce in a larger pool. Teach them about the importance of water safety from an early age.