What are the three layers of protection?

Layer 1: Supervision

This is the most crucial layer of protection.

It calls for a responsible adult to actively watch when a child is in or around a body of water.

The adult should not allow any distractions that could keep them from monitoring the area.

Children should never be allowed to enter the pool area without adult supervision.

Safety is the responsibility of the adult supervising but also for children and the entire family.

Pool rules should be known by all that are in the pool area.

Layer 2: Barriers

Barriers, such as fences, walls, doors and windows, should block a child from being able to enter the pool area.

Barriers should always be checked to make sure they are working properly. Barriers also include approved pool covers that are fitted to the pool.

Canvas pool covers can become a drowning hazard and entrap a child in the water as it wraps around them.

Alarms on windows and doors are another level of security that could be added to the barrier system.

The alarm would signal when a door or window that opens out to the pool area is opened.

Ladders and other means of climbing should not be left near barriers, as they may allow children to climb and attain access to the pool area.

Layer3:EmergencyPreparedness

Adults should have a phone nearby to be able to call 911.

The adult should know their location, what the emergency is and what help is being given, and relay this back to the 911 dispatcher.

The best idea is for the supervising adult is to learn CPR and First Aid so they can provide onsite lifesaving.

Everyone should learn how to swim. All persons should learn the basics of swimming like floating, treading water and moving through the water.

Swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88%.

Fundementally, drowning awareness is central to drowning prevention.