Home Water Safety Protocol

Gauge potential water hazards around your home, including pools, bathtubs, buckets, and ponds.

Install barriers such as pool fencing, self-closing, and self-latching gates to restrict access to the pool area.

Ensure constant, attentive supervision when children are in or near water; avoid distractions like mobile phones.

Enroll family members, especially children, in formal swimming lessons with competent instructors.

Prepare for emergencies by learning CPR, basic water rescue skills, and keeping rescue equipment and a phone near the pool.

Maintain clear water and proper chemical balance in pools and regularly check for and remove potential hazards.

Equip your pool with safety devices such as life rings, reaching poles, and slip-resistant surfaces around the pool area.

Install water hazard alarms that can alert you to unauthorized pool access or accidental falls into the water.

Securely store all water receptacles, such as buckets and containers, in an upright position and out of children's reach to prevent accumulation of water.

Never leave a child unattended in a bathtub, and install nonslip mats to prevent falls.

Inspect the pool and spa drain covers to ensure they comply with federal safety standards to prevent entrapment.

Educate all adults in the household on water safety practices and ensure all are capable of performing them.

Verify that all safety measures comply with local building and safety codes.

Consider learning about water safety programs in your community and participate in them.