CV Sheriffs Urge Pool Safety During Summer Months

Local authorities sent this important public safety message to Patch. It follows the of Emily Fu at her family's La Cañada home on Memorial Day. 

The  has sent out the following public safety announcement:

As the days get hotter, many citizens will be drawn to the water for fun and to find relief from the heat. We would like to remind everyone that unsupervised children and water can be a dangerous and sometimes fatal combination. The tragedy of drowning can be both a quick and silent event.

This tragedy does not have to happen to your family. Drowning deaths can be prevented by adhering to the following safety measures: 

• Never leave a child unattended near swimming pools, bathtubs, water buckets, or any body of water. There is no substitute for proper adult supervision.
• Never consider your child “drown-proof” because they’ve had swimming lessons.  Always watch your child in and around water.
• Even adults and/or strong swimmers should swim with another person for added safety.
• Flotation devices and floating water toys should not be used as a substitute for watching your child.
• Babysitters should be instructed about water safety and the need for them to constantly supervise the children they are watching.
• While using the pool, always keep a phone nearby so it can be answered without having to leave or used to call for help if needed.
• When entertaining guests, assign a C.P.R. and first aid trained adult swimmer to supervise the children who are using your pool.  
• Remove toys in and around the pool when the pool is not in use. Additionally, close all pool gates and if possible cover your pool when not in use.
• Responsibilities of pool ownership include; proper maintenance, learning CPR and first aid, ensuring children in the home learn basic water safety, and keeping your pool secure from unsupervised children and pets.   

These are only a few safety measures you should follow. For more tips go to www.poolsafety.gov

On behalf of all of the First Responders who serve our community, have a safe and happy summer.