For Immediate Release

Friday, May 29, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Contact: Jessica Sacco
Email: jessica@jgpr.net
Phone: 978-769-5193

North Reading Police Offer Pool Safety Tips

NORTH READING — Summer is on the horizon! Police Chief Michael P. Murphy and the North Reading Police Department would like to remind pool owners to be please take safety precautions this season.

The American Red Cross reports over 200 children drown in backyard swimming pools each year. To make your summer swimming season safer, Chief Murphy suggests that residents:

• Per Massachusetts regulation, have at least a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool (even if you don’t have children) and an access gate that self-closes, locks and opens outward from the swimming area. Fasten a safety cover when the pool is not in use. Remove ladders to further prevent access into the pool. For extra safety, install a pool alarm that will sound if anyone enters the water.

• Never leave children unattended while they’re near or in a pool and make sure they have an adult buddy 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 openings to avoid getting trapped or hurt. If a child does go missing, check the pool first.

• Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors or anyone who is near or using the pool. Advise children to stay clear of pool deep ends, and to always walk, not run around the pool.

• Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.

“We never want to see a situation where someone loses a loved one, especially a child, in pool-related accident,” Chief Murphy said. “We advise that all residents properly secure their pools to ensure a safe season for all.”

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