Splash safely with these 9 swimming tips

As days get longer and the temperature rises, more people will cool off in backyard pools with family and friends. However, it’s important to ensure that safety is a priority.

According to the American Red Cross, more than 200 children drown in backyard swimming pools each year. Here are some tips from Pool Safely, a national public education campaign to reduce child drownings, and the American Red Cross:

•             Never leave a child unattended in or near the water.

•             Teach children how to swim.

•             Have young or inexperienced swimmers wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

•             Teach children to stay away from drains.

•             Ensure all pools and spas – both in the backyard and at public places – have compliant drain covers.

•             Install proper barriers, covers and alarms on and around the pool or spa.

•             Regularly test and adjust the chemical levels to minimize the risk of ear aches, rashes or more serious diseases.

•             Know how to perform CPR on children and adults.

Parents and  homeowners, it is your responsibility to establish and enforce rules and safe behaviors.