Prepare For An Emergency!

Poolside rescue equipment, including a ring buoy with an attached line and/or a long handled hook, should be available to assist in removing victims from the water. This equipment should never be used for play.

Emergency procedures should be clearly written and posted in the pool area.

In case of emergency:

• Dial the local emergency telephone number 911 (or the appropriate 7-digit number for emergency Medical Service (EMS), Fire or Police). It is advisable to install a telephone (or use a cordless telephone) in the pool or spa area.
• Give your name, location, and telephone number you are calling from.
• Tell what happened and how many people need help.
• Don't hang up the phone until after the emergency person does.

Adults in the family should be trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). CPR is the combination of rescue breathing and artificial circulation for victims or respiratory or cardiac arrest as a result of drowning, heart attack or other causes. CPR training is available through local chapters of the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.

Preventing an emergency is the best preparation: Never leave a child alone in or near a pool, spa or any other body of water!

Take special precautions with young children who use spas. Spas are deep enough for children to drown in a matter of minutes. Also, children may become ill from overheating.