Pools are awesome! What could be better than a dip in the pool and fun in the sun? But even kids who know how to swim can have trouble in the water, so let's find out how to stay safe in the pool.
Have you seen those big numbers painted on the side of the pool? Those are called depth markers — they tell you how deep the water is at that point. It's important to remember that a pool's sides and bottom are usually made of concrete, a rock-hard material.
So always look before you jump into a pool. Make sure you only dive off the diving board. Never dive off the side of the pool unless an adult says that the water is deep enough. The water may be shallower than you think. If you hit the bottom you could hurt your head or neck, or even get knocked out.
Test the pool's water temperature before you plunge in.. You might open your mouth to yell and accidentally breathe in some water. Cold water also can slow your muscles, making it hard to swim.
Other rules to follow:
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995- The Nemours Foundation. KidsHealth® is a registered trademark of The Nemours Foundation. All rights reserved.
Images sourced by The Nemours Foundation and Getty Images.
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