For Immediate Release

Tuesday, June 7, 2016

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

North Reading Police Offer Pool and Boating Safety Tips

NORTH READING — As temperatures rise and summer approaches, Chief Michael P. Murphy and the North Reading Police Department remind residents to be safe while spending time by the water.

“Stay safe this summer by always being cognizant of your surroundings while swimming or boating,” Chief Murphy said. “Always keep a close eye on children, especially when they’re in the water.”

North Reading is home to Martins Pond, a 92 acre fresh water pond on the northwest corner of town. Residents are welcome to use the public beach and playground on the south side. Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are also permitted, and access is authorized at the northeast quadrant of the pond near Main Street, just east of the Skug River inlet.

While at the pond, the North Reading Police Department encourages all residents to:

• Always wear a life jacket when on a boat, canoe, or kayak.
• Enjoy recreational activities during daylight hours.
• Be cautious, especially when children are present.
• Practice sun safety: always wear sunscreen, seek shaded areas and protect your skin from direct sun exposure.

For those with their own pools, North Reading Police suggest that the community follow safety tips outlined by the American Red Cross:

• Per Massachusetts law, have at least a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool and an access gate that self-closes, locks, and opens outward from the swimming area (even if you don’t have children).
• Fasten a safety cover over the pool when it is not in use, and remove ladders to further prevent access into the pool. For added safety, install a pool alarm that will sound if anyone enters the water.
•  Never leave children unattended while they are near or in a pool, and make sure they have an adult 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 is missing, always check the pool first.
• Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors, or anyone else who is near or uses the pool. Advise children to stay away from pool deep ends, and to always walk, never run near the pool.
• Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.

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