Wilton Fire Department Advises Residents on Pool Safety

From Wilton Fire Department:

As you know, April Pools Day came and went on April 30. As we hope to kick off the pool, swimming, boating and water activity season soon, Wilton Fire Department takes a look at some things that must be known about recreational water safety.

Drownings happen quickly and quietly. Pool-goers must stand their watch and teach their family members and guests to use the word "help" for only true emergencies, not when Uncle Joe is chasing the children around the pool. Residents should know the signs of a swimmer in distress. Distressed swimmers are trying to swim, but are not making any progress. Active drowning victims tend to push down on the water in order to keep their heads above the water line. One must never assume a swimmer calling for help or believed to be in distress is joking around. Take action.

If someone is missing, pool-goers are advised to check the pool, hot tub and other locations. Using the teach-throw method, one can reach with a pole, skimmer net or other long-handed device or, alternatively, throw a buoy or other inflated device. One must only go in if he or she is a trained water rescue person, lifeguard or if he or she can stand up in the body of water with one's head above the water line. A drowning victim will very often pull his or her rescuer under the water. Pool-goers are encouraged to learn life-saving techniques and CPR.

A bamboo or aluminum pole make good reach devices as well as a ring buoy on a rope. A closed, empty, gallon milk container on a rope could also work. If boating, there must be a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) on board for each person. Individuals must get emergency services rolling as soon as possible and keep a phone handy while ensuring that someone dials 9-1-1 as the emergency unfolds. Whether in the back yard, at the beach or on a boat, a first-air kit should be on hand.

Anyone watching children who are in or around water must understand that drowning happens quickly and suddenly; one must never take their eyes off of those they supervise, not even for a moment. Any source of water is a potential drowning hazard, especially for young children and weak swimmers. It’s a known fact that people can drown in as little as three inches of water. Pool-goers should know how to respond to a swimmer in distress, and parents are encouraged to get everyone to swimming lessons

Further information is available through the Red Cross website.