September 10, 2010

Getting in to and out of the pool safely



Getting safely in to and out of the swimming pool are important safety skills.   At Seriously Fun Swimming Schools we teach The Safe Swivel Entry into the pool and encourage climbing out of the pool from an early age.

Children also learn that they are not to enter the water until instructed to do so.

When getting into the pool from the side with your baby or child it is important that you use The Safe Swivel Entry into the pool to set a good example and protect your back.

The Safe Swivel Entry
Sit on the side of the pool with both palms flat on the poolside, fingers facing forward. Put one hand across your body and turn around to face the opposite direction. Gently slide into pool.

Getting a young baby into the pool
Lay your baby on a towel or baby changing mat by the shallow end of the pool with their feet facing the water. Sit on the pool edge next to baby, using the Safe Swivel Entry turn towards your baby and enter the water so that you are standing in the water facing your baby. Place your hands under babies back and scoop baby up towards you. If you need to use the steps, (ALWAYS walk down steps backwards) lay baby on the pool edge as above by the steps to ensure your baby is in full view as you enter the pool.

Getting older babies into the pool
Sit on the pool edge with your baby by the shallow end. Put one hand on top of your baby’s hand, using The Safe Swivel Entry turn towards your baby and enter the water so that you are standing in the water facing your baby. Encourage and assist older babies to enter the pool using The Safe Swivel Entry.

Getting out of the pool
Encourage older babies to climb out of the pool with assistance and then when strong enough independently. Always move away from the side after getting out of the pool.

Safety Tips

  • Children should only enter the pool when instructed to do so
  • Never jump or slide into the pool with a child in your arms
  • Always climb down ladder steps backwards.
  • Never climb down ladder steps when holding a child
  • After getting out of the pool always move away from the pool side
  • Ensure children do not bump their chins on the side when getting in and climbing out of the pool

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