Welcome, parents, to our comprehensive guide on paddling pool safety - your ultimate resource for ensuring a fun and secure summer for your little ones!
As temperatures rise and sunny days beckon, many families turn to the paddling pool as a refreshing space for children to splash and play. However, it's crucial to prioritise safety to prevent accidents and ensure peace of mind.
In this detailed guide, we're delving into essential tips, expert advice, and practical strategies to create a safe environment around your paddling pool. Let's make this summer a time of worry-free fun for the whole family!
Are paddling pools safe?
Paddling pools can be a fantastic way to beat the heat and create cherished family memories during the summer months.
However, it's important to recognise that, like any water activity, paddling pools come with inherent risks. From slips and falls to the potential for drowning, there are real dangers to be aware of. Even 2cm of water can pose a deadly risk of drowning to a child, the Royal Life Saving Society warns.
But here's the good news: with proper precautions and supervision, paddling pools can absolutely be safe for children to enjoy. Parents can mitigate many of the risks associated with water play by selecting a suitable location, setting up the pool correctly, enforcing clear rules, and providing constant supervision.
Additionally, teaching your children essential water safety skills from a young age empowers them to make smart choices around the pool.
Steps you can take to ensure paddling pool safety this summer
Here are the top 7 paddling pool safety tips to keep your children safe and having fun this summer.
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Set up in the right place
When picking the perfect spot for your paddling pool, think safety first! Opt for a flat area in your garden, free from any sharp objects or potential hazards like rocks or sticks.
It's also wise to steer clear of overhanging tree branches that could shed leaves or debris into the water. Creating a clear, open space around the pool ensures easy access and minimises the risk of trips and falls.
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Never leave your children unattended
It's the golden rule of water safety: never leave unattended children near the pool, even for a moment. This includes older children. Assign a designated adult whose sole responsibility is to keep a vigilant eye on the pool at all times.
It only takes 30 seconds or less for a young child to drown silently, warns Dr Lois Lee from Boston Children's Hospital, so active supervision is key to preventing accidents.
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Install secure fencing
Adding a barrier around your paddling pool can provide an extra layer of protection, especially if you have curious little explorers at home. This simple precaution can help prevent accidents and give you peace of mind.
The RLSS advises that fences surrounding garden paddling pools, swimming pools, inflatable hot tubs, and ponds should be at least four feet tall and surround all edges of the water.
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Put the Pimms down
While it's tempting to enjoy a refreshing drink in the sun, alcohol can impair judgement, coordination, and reaction time.
This impairment significantly increases the risk of accidents and can hinder your ability to respond quickly in case of an emergency.
By staying sober and fully focused on supervising water activities, you're better equipped to anticipate and prevent potential hazards.
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Enforce pool rules
Every pool party needs a set of ground rules to ensure everyone stays safe and has a blast!
Sit down with your kids and establish clear guidelines for pool behaviour, like no pushing or boisterous behaviour, no diving in shallow water, and always asking for permission before getting in the pool.
Consistently enforcing these rules helps create a culture of safety and respect around the water.
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Cover or empty paddling pools straight after use
Using a paddling pool cover when everyone's finished playing helps keep curious little ones from wandering in when nobody's looking, reducing the chance of accidents. Plus, it keeps pesky leaves and debris out of the water, making your next swim even more enjoyable.
If your garden has water storage tanks or drains, be sure that they are also securely covered. The same is true for permanent pools, hot tubs, home spas, and ponds, which need to be covered, fenced, and kept from children's reach.
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Know what to do in an emergency
No one wants to think about emergencies, but being prepared can make all the difference. First and foremost, ensure that everyone in the household knows how to swim or at least float to stay safe in the water.
In case of an emergency, such as a child slipping underwater or becoming distressed while swimming, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can be lifesaving.
First aid, CPR and basic water rescue skills are invaluable tools that every adult supervising the pool should have. Consider taking a CPR certification course to learn these lifesaving techniques. The Royal Life Saving Society offers a free online course called Lifesaver that is designed for families to learn what to do if someone is drowning.
By being prepared for the unexpected, you can respond swiftly and confidently in any emergency situation, minimising the risk of harm and ensuring the safety of everyone in and around the paddling pool.
Find the perfect paddling pool for your kids
By implementing the steps outlined in this guide, from setting up the pool correctly to teaching water safety and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can enjoy a summer filled with joyful memories and worry-free splashing.
At Outdoor Toys, we understand the importance of safety around water play. That's why our products are designed with durability, stability, and security in mind, giving you peace of mind while your family enjoys endless hours of aquatic fun.
So why not make this summer one to remember with a paddling pool from Outdoor Toys? With our wide range of pools, inflatable hot tubs, water slides, and pool accessories, you'll find everything you need to create your own outdoor oasis.