For Immediate Release

Thursday, June 9, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Andover Fire Rescue Provides Water Safety Tips

ANDOVER – With summer only a couple weeks away, Chief Michael Mansfield and the Andover Fire Rescue would like to provide residents with essential water safety tips for the season.

One area in town for swimming is Pomp’s Pond, located at 147 Abbot St. The recreational park complex is open to all residents, and includes areas for canoeing, kayaking and sail boating. The 2016 season begins June 11 and ends August 14, and the park is open from 12-7 p.m. daily. Swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are on duty. Seasonal passes are available for residents.

Haggetts Pond serves as a water supply for the town, and therefore, per state law and town ordinance, recreational swimming and boating are prohibited.

“We hope that residents have a fun, relaxing and safe summer,” Chief Mansfield said. “Please remember to follow guidelines at Pomp’s Pond when swimming or boating.”

For kayakers, paddlers and recreational boaters, The American Canoe Association offers the following safety tips:

• Always wear a life jacket.
• Children under the age of 12 must wear a life jacket in a public body of water at all times.
• Be a competent swimmer with the ability to handle oneself underwater, moving water, surf or current.
• Keep a lookout for hazards and avoid them. 
• Know your emotional and physical limitations.
• Avoid boating or other water activities while under the influence of drugs of alcohol.
• Be aware of weather conditions.

Additionally, for residents with their own pools, Andover Fire Rescue suggests that the community follow safety tips outlined by the American Red Cross:

• Per Massachusetts law, have at least a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool and an access gate that self-closes, locks, and opens outward from the swimming area (even if you do not have children).
• Fasten a safety cover over the pool when it is not in use, and remove ladders to further prevent access into the pool. For added safety, install a pool alarm that will sound if anyone enters the water.
• Never leave children unattended while they are near or in a pool, and make sure they have an adult to accompany them into the water. Young or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a life jacket or inflatable arm floats.
• Make sure children stay away from pool drains, pipes, or any other openings to avoid getting trapped or hurt. If a child is missing, always check the pool first.
• Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors, or anyone else who is near or uses the pool. Advise children to stay away from pool deep ends, and to always walk, never run, near the pool.
• Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.

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