Posts Tagged ‘pool safety’

How A Salt Water Pool Can Save You Money And Provide A Safer Environment For Your Family

Friday, February 4th, 2011

An every increasing number of people are finding that salt water pool systems are a healthier alternative because the proven technology has been around for a long time and the storage, handling and use of chlorine is unnecessary.

By way of the circulation system, these pools use chlorine generators to filter non-iodized salt (sodium chloride) by naturally electrifying the salt which produces a natural form of chlorine. This will eliminate algae and bacteria from the water, just as using chlorine would do. These chlorine generators can be used with virtually any water supply and only if you live in an area with high amounts of certain minerals in your water will it be necessary to add additional pool chemicals.

Unlike the ocean, the concentration of salt in these pools is very low. Water from the ocean is ten times saltier than salt pool water. The pool will contain 3,500 parts per million and the ocean contains 35,000 parts per million. You will not be able to feel, taste or smell salt in your salt water pool.

Salt water pools provide an improved experience because the water is softer, cleaner, no skin irritation, no itchy eyes or hair discoloration caused by a traditional chlorine pool.

Be sure to investigate whether the equipment you purchase for your pool is designed for longevity of life for these alternate systems. The money, time and effort saved on the absence of chlorine saves money in and of itself. The cost of the systems vary anywhere from $2,000-$5,000. However, if you have an existing pool and wish to switch from chlorine to salt water, do research, and talk with equipment professionals who know what works best with your pool.

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A Comparison of In Ground and Above Ground Pools

Thursday, January 6th, 2011

In the hot summer months, nothing beats taking a dip in a refreshing, cool pool of water. When deciding to get a pool for your family, there are some choices to consider. In ground pools and above ground pools both have pros and cons. A prospective buyer should become informed to make the best decision for your family.

Homes with restricted space in the patio or backyard can still take pleasure in the benefits of a pool with the purchase of an above ground model. Furthermore, if space is abundant, but a homeowner does not wish it taken up by putting in a pool, an above ground type will save space. Above ground pools are considerably less costly than in ground pools, averaging only one-tenth of the price. Also, an additional advantage to above ground pools is that they can be moved if needed. Pools in ground, however, increase the value of a home anywhere from four percent up to thirteen percent, dependent on the part of the country one resides in. In ground pools may also make or break the sale of a home, in some instances.

Both pool types are similar as far as maintenance and regular balancing of the water goes. The above ground pool will have less chemical and water usage due to size. Both kinds of pools will necessitate sweeping, regular testing of water chemicals and both will need chlorine added. Large repairs will occur from time to time with an in ground pool.

With any pool, responsibility arrives. Child-proofing a pool is imperative and, in some states, even required. Above ground pools are made child safe by easily removing the ladder, denying access to the top, where the pool is entered. Also, a hard top or cover can be placed over the top of the opening of the pool. Usually more work is required when child-proofing an in-ground pool. A permanent or removable fence can be mounted around the pool deck perimeter. Additional options include alarms which sound once the water surface is disrupted. A person would need to be in earshot of the alarm to make it effective, however. Also available are safety nets and top covers and in some states a resident can be considered child safe if they install a self-closing gate at their back yard entrance.

Both types of pools offer fun, quality time with the family. A pool enhances summer celebrations with friends and family, providing hours of entertainment. Pools also encourage exercise and a chance to enjoy the outdoors when the weather becomes hot.

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When Should You Start Teaching Your Kids To Swim?

Friday, October 22nd, 2010

Swimming is enjoyed by kids of all ages, but this popular past time has many tragic stories. In the year 2007 alone, more than three thousand Americans drowned. About ten people die daily from swimming and a great number of victims are children under fifteen years old. For each child who drowns, another four end up in emergency rooms due to non-fatal submersion injuries.

What is the primary reason kids drown? The answer is apparent: most of these victims do not know how to swim. If they were able to swim well, many of these kids would probably have survived. Knowing this, what is the ideal age to teach your child to swim? How early should swimming lessons commence? In the past, the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that formal swimming lessons should start at 4 years old. Nevertheless, the same organization recommended recently that children between one to four years old may benefit from swimming lessons. In addition, a number of swimming instructors say that infants can practice swimming as early as six months old if they are not adverse to the water.

In spite of this younger age to begin teaching, do not make the mistake of thinking that swimming lessons will make your child “water-resistant” or “drown-proof.” It is true that swimming lessons may improve children’s self-reliance and confidence in the water, but a child’s risk of drowning is always present, regardless of swimming ability. Children are well known for over-estimating their abilities. As always, adult supervision and water safety should be a priority with all children.

Will early swimming lessons turn your child into a more proficient swimmer at a younger age? Data indicates the answer is no. One study concluded that the age children begin swimming does not influence the age they become proficient at swimming. It does not matter what age children begin swimming, whether they begin swimming at two, three or four years of age, children usually swim well at about the same age of five and a half years.

Swimming undoubtedly has many advantages. These include better lung health (especially for those with asthma), improved heart rate and circulation, increased muscle strength and toned muscle mass. People may also lose weight with swimming, more so when you are dieting. It prevents obesity and leads to increases in discipline, motivation, confidence and social interactions. Lastly, swimming is a great way to cool down and relax, for both the mind and body.

For great priced pools, supplies, accessories, and pool safety equipment check out NationWidePools.com.

What To Do In Case Of Drowning

Wednesday, July 28th, 2010

Drowning is more common than you think and many of its victims are kids. Death from drowning is caused by suffocation when liquid enters the lungs. This prevents the lungs from bringing oxygen to the rest of the body leading to cerebral hypoxia and myocardial infarction.

Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children under 12 years old in many parts of the world. In the United States, it is the second leading cause of death for this age (with the first being road accidents.) Such drowning incidents do not just occur in large bodies of water. Kids can be harmed in small bodies of water, including wading pools and bath tubs.

The drowning rates around the world differ based on climate, national swimming culture and access to water. In the United Kingdom, approximately 450 drownings occur each year or 1 per 150,000 people. In comparison, the United States sees 6,500 every year or 1 in 50,000 of the population. The victims are typically young to adolescent males.

If a child falls in the pool, how should you react? After pulling them out to safety, try to get them to couch. This will aid in their breathing. Find a warm towel to wrap the child with and hold them close to avoid them going into shock. Try to remain as calm as possible and do not react overly negatively in order to not impact the child’s future fear of swimming and water. If the child is unconscious or has no heartbeat, start CPR and call 911.

If the child seems fine, observe him for the next few days for signs of secondary drowning. This happens up to 72 hours after exposure to water. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, coughing or voice changes. Other signs are mood changes, extreme fatigue or a sudden illness. If you think your kid has inhaled a large amount of water, listen closely to his breathing. Check for gurgled or wheezing sounds that may indicate water in the lungs.

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Emergency Preparation For Child Drownings

Sunday, July 11th, 2010

Every year 6,000 to 8,000 people drown in the United States alone. Many victims are children who can drown in any body of water. These include lakes, pools, bathtubs or even a big pail of water. To prevent accidental deaths caused by drowning, never leave your kid alone around water. If near drowning occurs, your best recourse is swift action and first aid to prevent death.

Keep in mind that a drowning kid cant call for help so be on the lookout for signs of trouble. Don’t expose yourself to danger by jumping into the water to save someone unless you happen to be a good swimmer. Its better to use a long pole or branch to reach the victim. Or you can throw a rope attached to a floating object to pull the child safely ashore.

Remember the letters A, B and C whenever you are faced with a drowning accident. This will help remind you of: Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. Finding a child unresponsive means that you should immediately call for help. Remove the child and place them on a firm, flat surface until help has arrived.

Make sure you open up the child’s airway by tilting their head back and lifting the jaw slightly. Check to see if there is anything blocking the child’s airway and see if they are breathing. If the child is not breathing, begin rescue breathing right away. To do this, pinch the child’s nose (unless they are younger than one year old) and close your lips around their mouth. Breathe twice into the child’s mouth. Make sure to do this in a slow and gentle way.

If done right, this will cause his chest to rise. If not, the child’s tongue could be blocking his airway or your lips aren’t covering his mouth. Repeat the procedure if necessary. If you have a spa, keep it safe with a good spa cover.

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Child Safety A Must

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010

It is the sense of freedom which is great. The fresh air, plants and animals are great. These make the ?great outdoors? so great.

Great outdoors can be enjoyed by the children with the several safety measures such as children at play signs.

Railings on porches, decks and balconies should be close to prevent the children sliding through. This will prevent even their heads getting caught. Thus, dangers are present to the children at play even right outside the front or bath door.

Fencing should be done, of the play regions, when children are at play. The front or back yards should be limited. Exits and stairs, to prevent fall should be blocked off.

Under no circumstances, children should be allowed in streets. Kid drivers are protected by children at play signs from adult drivers. Children should ride toys in safe areas such as sidewalks.

In addition to areas directly around the house, child safety should also be maintained in other locations. Inspect your child?s playground equipment, to ensure that repairs are not required. Furthermore, place woodchips, mulch, or sand underneath swing sets.

Keep the toys, chair and tables away from the pools. Never leave a child abandoned near water at the pool. One should practice cardio-pulmonary resuscitation or CPR to get ready for emergency situations at the pool.

If there are permanent pools, they are to be fenced and a latch should be installed. Automatic gates which get locked themselves can be used to protect the children at play. Techniques like CPR must be learned to get prepared for emergency conditions.

While we might expect man-made objects and places to present dangers to children at play, ironically plants and plant-related materials can also create safety hazards for kids.

Therefore, one must be aware of the common varieties of plants which are poisonous and grow in your location. If the child ingests the plant which is poisonous, one must contact the poison control center. The remaining bits of the plant should be removed from kid?s mouth.

You can a poison control center if the child eats poisonous plant. Remove the remaining bits from the child?s mouth. To get additional awareness, learn about the poisonous plants. Moreover, keep the lawn and garden equipment, sharp objects, lawnmowers away at a distance form children. Do not allow children to come nearby, when using pesticides and fertilizers. Keep these products and equipments in safe, locked location.

To enjoy all benefits from the great outdoors, specific precautionary measures should be followed like children at play signs, to ensure safety and make area hazard free.

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