Pools are a great way to beat the Texas heat and enjoy family time, especially during Dallas summers. However, it's important to follow pool safety tips to keep the fun going and avoid accidents. Tragically, drowning is one of the leading causes of death for young children. In fact, more children ages 1 to 4 die from drowning than from any other cause. The good news is that most pool-related incidents can be prevented with a few simple precautions. At Advance ER, we are dedicated to helping families stay safe by sharing the following summer pool safety tips for both backyard and public pools.
Always Supervise Children in and Around Water
Active adult supervision is the most effective way to prevent pool-related injuries. Never leave a child unattended in or near the water—not even for a minute. Drowning is often fast and silent, so an adult should always keep their eyes on the pool, free of distractions like phones or books.
At gatherings, take turns assigning a designated “water watcher” whose only job is to supervise. Even if a lifeguard is on duty, stay close and alert. No one, regardless of age or skill level, should swim alone.
Backyard Pool Safety Tips
Home pools can provide hours of entertainment, but they also need proper safeguards:
- Install a four-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate
- Lock gates and consider installing door alarms that alert you to movement near the pool
- Remove floats and toys when not in use to prevent children from reaching for them
- Use a safety-rated pool cover when the pool is not being used
- Always drain inflatable or kiddie pools after each use
These steps are especially important because most home pool accidents happen when children slip away unnoticed from inside the house.
Public Pool Safety Tips
Public and community pools also require careful attention:
- Choose pools with lifeguards, but never rely solely on them
- Teach children to follow posted pool rules and listen to staff
- Only dive in clearly marked areas with appropriate depth
- Keep younger or less experienced swimmers within arm’s reach
- Be aware of wet surfaces and encourage safe walking near the pool
Stay close, stay alert, and stay engaged with your children while they swim in public spaces.
Sun and Heat Safety at the Pool
While the water keeps you cool, the sun can still be harmful. Follow these tips to avoid sunburns and heat exhaustion:
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours
- Dress children in UV-protective swimwear or rash guards
- Drink water frequently to stay hydrated
- Take breaks in the shade throughout the day
- Watch for signs of fatigue, dizziness, or overheating
Combining sun protection with water safety gives your family the best chance at a worry-free pool day.
Be Prepared for Pool Emergencies
Preparation can make all the difference in an emergency:
- Keep a phone nearby for quick access to 911
- Always check the pool first if a child is missing
- Keep safety tools like life rings, a hook, and a first aid kit within reach
- Learn CPR and basic water rescue techniques
- Teach your children how to recognize emergencies and ask for help
Having a plan in place can lead to quicker responses and better outcomes when seconds matter most.
Stay Safe with Support from Advance ER
By following these pool safety tips, your family can enjoy the summer with fewer worries and more confidence. Whether you’re at a public pool or relaxing in your own backyard, a few proactive steps can go a long way toward preventing accidents. If you ever face an emergency or have concerns about a water-related injury, Advance ER in Dallas is open 24/7 to provide fast, high-quality medical care.
Contact us at (214) 494-8222 or visit us anytime. We’re always here when your family needs us most.