Is Your Swimming Pool Safe Year-round?

Marianna- Local water safety officials are warning homeowners about pool safety after two Florida toddlers lost their lives this week in separate drowning incidents.

Posted: 5:29 PM Nov 29, 2011
Reporter: Bryan Anderson
Email Address: Bryan.Anderson@wjhg.com

Marianna- Chipola College Aquatics Director Rance Massengill said his heart goes out to the two separate families in Florida who lost toddlers to pool drownings Monday.

"We hate to hear it and we're thinking about those families," said Massengill.

According to authorities, both children fell into their families' pools, without anyone noticing.

"Drowing of children four and under is a very serious thing in the United States," said Massengill.

Massengill, who's been a water safety expert for years, said there are ways to stop these types of tragedies.

"The entire perimeter of the pool should be fenced off if you're trying to keep people out," said Massengill.

He also said pool covers can be effective but they must be weighed down. If someone does fall in the water, you must act fast.

"In a child that cannot swim, they'll be unconscious in less than one minute," said Massengill.

Massengill recommended throwing the victim a flotation device, only jumping in yourself if you have the proper training. Regardless, Massengill told News Channel 7 it should never come to that point.

"Having proper supervision at all times is the key to it," said Massengill.

Safety experts said kids can drown in as little as a few inches of water.

Source: http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/Is_Your_Swimming_Pool_Safe_Year-round_134712988.html