Install, maintain and utilize proper fencing, gates, gate latches, alarms and other safety equipment around the pool.

• Fences should be at least five feet high, separating the pool from the residence.

• The area surrounding the fence should be clear of objects that could aid a child in climbing over.

• Gates should be self-closing and self-latching.  The latch should be installed at the top of the gate, out of the reach of children.

• Every door and window allowing pool access should be locked at all times.

• Additional layers of protection include: safety covers, gate alarms, door alarms and motion detection devices.

• The use of multiple layers of protection can significantly reduce pediatric pool drownings and near-drownings.

• Always assign an adult "Water-Watcher" who is able to swim.  Children should never be left in or near a pool unattended, not even for a minute.
• Teach children and water-watchers "the pool rules" and appropriate behaviour to be used in and around a pool.  Post and obey all pool rules.
• Do not rely on flotation devices; a child can easily slip out of them or even remove them.
• Children and adults alike should learn to swim and maintain these skills year-round.
• A child should never be considered or treated as "water-safe".  This can cause a false sense of security and lack of supervision.

Learn CPR, first-aid, and rescue techniques.  Keep an emergency action plan and phone by the pool at all times.

• Always be ready for an emergency.
• Prepare and share an emergency action plan.
• Adults, caretakers and children should learn CPR, first-aid and rescue techniques.
• Keep rescue equipment such as shepherd's hook, life-saving ring and CPR sign mounted by the pool.
• Post and know all emergency numbers such as 9-1-1
• Have a phone next to the pool to call 9-1-1 in case of emergency and to prevent the Water-Watcher from leaving the pool area to answer a phone call.