Town of Dedham Shares Vital Pool Safety Tips

For Immediate Release

Monday, June 8, 2015
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003

Email: john@jgpr.net
Contact: Jessica Sacco
Email: jessica@jgpr.net

Town of Dedham Shares Vital Pool Safety Tips

DEDHAM —  Town Manger Jim Kern, Police Chief Michael d’Entremont and Fire Chief William Spillane would like to advise residents to stay safe when poolside this summer.

“We know everyone is excited for warm weather and to spend time in the water, but we hope pool owners will work to ensure children and adults are as safe as can be before and after swimming,” Town Manager Kern said.

Over 200 children drown in backyard swimming pools each year, according to the American Red Cross. Two fatalities have already occurred this season in New England.

“It is always tragic to lose a loved one, and even worse when the incident is an accident that involves a child,” Chief d’Entremont said. “Please take caution this season.”

To avoid accidents, Dedham officials recommend that residents:

• Per Massachusetts regulation, 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 don’t 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.
• Watch the local weather reports. Do not swim if thunderstorms are in the forecast.

“We always recommend being over cautious in situations where a life is at stake,” Chief Spillane said. “Please implement these key pool safety precautions this summer.”

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