What used to be Pool Safety Week has now become National Water Safety Month. Starting in May 2009, the public awareness campaign spearheaded by The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, the World Waterpark Association and the National Recreation & Park Association is dedicating the month to educating the public about safe aquatic environments. These include residential and public swimming pools and spas, waterparks, hotels and resorts, and water recreation facilities.
The safety campaign will focus on layers of protection, anti-entrapment drain covers, and undistracted adult supervision.
Drowning Prevention Tips & Facts
Here's one fact to think about: drowning is completely preventable. Learn other drowning prevention tips and facts in this list compiled from suggestions offered by theSwimming Safety: The 7 Layers of Protection
Follow these layers of protection mandated in the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act to make your pool or spa safer.Diving Rules for Private Pools
Many insurance companies will not cover swimming pools that have diving boards because of the danger of using them with private pools. If you do own a swimming pool with a diving board or know someone who does, read and forward this list of rules to help prevent a diving catastrophe from occurring.The 6 PLEAs for a Healthy Swimming Environment
The week before Memorial Day Weekend -- May 18-24, 2009 -- is National Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week. Children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk for RWIs. Learn more about RWIs and how you can prevent them.Be Water Aware
The Waterpark Association has comprised a list of simple safety tips to help ensure your visit to a waterpark will be fun and safe. Among their suggestions:- Learn to swim
- Look for lifeguards
- Don't drink alcohol
- Check the water depth
- Be aware of the dreaded "toos"
- Follow age and height instructions
Hot Tub Do's
It's not just a matter of etiquette. Learn how to make your hot tub or spa area a safer environment for you and your guests.Hot Tub Don'ts
Many of these don'ts aren't just embarrassing things that could happen -- they are safety rules and precautions to make your hot tub and spa experience at home a relaxing and enjoyable one.31 States Endorse National Water Safety Month
Governors of 31 states -- from Alabama to Wyoming -- have issued proclamations recognizing May 2009 as National Water Safety Month in their respective states. Visit to see which states recognize National Water Safety Month and acknowledge the importance of water-safety programs in the prevention of water-related injuries and drowning.Contact Your U.S. Representatives
Representatives Ellen Tauscher (CA-10), Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (FL-20) and Frank Wolf (VA-10) have introduced a Resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives recognizing May as National Drowning Prevention and Water Safety Month. While a Resolution does not carry the force of law, it is Congress’ way of proclaiming the importance of a particular issue. This resolution calls attention to the dangers and costs of fatal and near-drowning incidents in the United States and encourages parents, caregivers, supervisors, and others to be aware of hazards near swimming and water recreational facilities.Contact your U.S. Representative and request that they co-sponsor the National Drowning Prevention and Water Safety Month Resolution.
