Thomas Perkins, Chief of Police
1 Friend Court
PO Box 536
Wenham, MA 01984
For Immediate Release
Monday, June 1, 2015
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Wenham Police Share Important Pool Safety Tips
WENHAM — As temperatures continue to climb, residents will be looking for ways to stay cool this summer. Chief Thomas Perkins and the Wenham Police Department would like to remind pool owners and swimmers to take appropriate safety precautions before diving in.
The American Red Cross reports that over 200 children drown in backyard swimming pools each year. Chief Perkins offers the following suggestions to keep pools safe:
- Per Massachusetts regulation, have at least a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool and an access gate that self-closes, locks, and opens outward from the swimming area (even if you don’t have children).
- Fasten a safety cover over the pool when it is not in use, and remove ladders to further prevent access to the pool. For added safety, install a pool alarm that will sound if anyone enters the water.
- Never leave children unattended while they are near or in a pool, and make sure they have an adult to accompany them into the water. Young or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a life jacket or inflatable arm floats.
- Make sure children stay away from pool drains, pipes, or any other opening to avoid getting trapped or hurt. If a child is missing, always check the pool first.
- Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors, or anyone else who is near or uses the pool. Advise children to stay away from pool deep ends, and to always walk, never run near the pool.
- Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.
“Pool safety is extremely important, especially when children are present,” Chief Perkins said. “We encourage residents with pools to take these safety tips seriously so everyone can enjoy the summer accident-free.”
###