The annual Major League Baseball All-Star Game signifies the unofficial midway point of summer, and that also is the case when it comes to swimming pool season here throughout Atlanta and in the state of Georgia. With the Fourth of July, we were able to celebrate with fireworks, a backyard BBQ or summer party that was more than likely located near a swimming pool or body of water.
As so many families know, it only takes a few seconds for a fun event to turn into a tragedy. That’s why it is so critical that all parents and children follow a few simple steps to stay safer when spending time in or near the water. The midpoint of summer is the perfect time to get a reminder and also to look at some great new pool gadgets and tech for use at the pool.
Media reports and data from the USA Swimming Foundation show that, on average, 17 children fatally drown in a swimming pool or spa every year during and following the week of the July Fourth holiday.
“While the Independence Day holiday is a time to celebrate our freedoms with friends and family, these celebrations often take place in and around the water, which can turn tragic very quickly,” said CPSC Acting Chair Ann Marie Buerkle. “I want to remind all families to take the simple water safety steps that can make a big difference during the holiday week and all summer: designate an adult water watcher when your kids are in and around the water, ensure that your pool is surrounded by a four-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate, teach your kids to stay away from drains in the pool and spa and teach your children how to swim – it’s a lifesaving skill.”
Tips
- Never swim alone and always watch children in and around the water. Designate an “Adult Water Watcher.”
- Teach kids how to swim. It’s a skill that will last a lifetime.
- Stay away from drains in the pool. Make sure all drains are covered.
- Make sure pools you use have a fence, a self-latching gate, alarms, a lifeguard (if a public pool) and is cleaned or covered.
Some New Gadgets and Tech you Can Use in and Around the Pool
Pool Safety Pack
From Twist and Seal, it’s the new Pool Safety Pack. It keeps water away from electrical cord connections and comes with three safety products – Cord Dome for power strips, Maxx for large cords, and Cord Protect for regular cords. This pack helps keeps the whole family safe by sealing off outside cords. Heavy grade industrial plastic is used, so you know these will be durable products that last.
Before stepping into the sand or walking around the pool, slip on a pair of Ahhsoles and experience incredible comfort with every step you take. It gets slippery poolside and Ahhsoles will give you traction and won’t slip or slide. Ditch that dull, everyday footwear and throw on a pair of Ahhsoles flip-flops! Perfectly named for that “Ahhh!” feeling you experience when taking your shoes off after a long day on your feet, this innovative brand designs an irresistible selection of wild foot bed textures that are “Offensively comfortable”. Ahhsoles also represent a step forward in flip-flop culture by deviating from the traditional idea of flip-flops and experimenting with vibrant textures, colors, and of course our unique name. We believe that our wild textures, styles, and name will become a major trend and fashion accessory rather than simply remaining normal everyday footwear.
No pool area is complete without your grill and some flawless outdoor scenery. If night swimming is a favorite activity, Blisslights are the perfect way to transform any outdoor social gatherings into a magical affair and keep things lit in a magical way. Whether you want to give the trees in your backyard that extra sparkle, or perfect the lighting in your pool, Blisslights can upgrade any pool deck or patio into a colorful oasis. The trendy, twinkling BlissLights will bring your pool to life.
Keep the entire pool and pool area safe and clean with swim diapers for the little ones. Bambino Mio is a cloth diaper company offering a range of products designed for the stylish, modern and eco-conscious parent. Bambino Mio diapers are as simple to use as a disposable, easy to put on and easy to wash. They also make swim diapers for the pool or bath and a range of potty training essentials for when it’s time to ditch the diapers.
Enjoy the rest of your summer!