FAST FACTS: Pool Safety And Children

--  Fences and walls should be at least 4 feet high and installed completely around the pool. Fence gates should be self-closing and self-latching. The latch should be out of a small child's reach. 

--  If your house forms one side of the barrier to the pool, then doors leading from the house to the pool should be protected with alarms that
produce a sound when a door is unexpectedly opened. 

--  A power safety cover -- a motor powered barrier that can be placed over the water area -- can be used when the pool is not in use. 

--  Keep rescue equipment by the pool and be sure a portable phone is poolside with emergency numbers posted. Knowing cardiopulmonary
resuscitation (CPR) can be a lifesaver. 

-- For aboveground pools, steps and ladders to the pool should be secured and locked or removed when the pool is not in use. 

-- If a child is missing, always look in the pool first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability. 

-- Pool alarms can be used as an added precaution. Underwater pool alarms
generally perform better and can be used in conjunction with pool covers. CPSC advises that consumers use remote alarm receivers so
the alarm can be heard inside the house or in other places away from the pool.

Source: CPSC