WATER SAFETY: Have a fun and safe splash!

Swimming Safety
Boating Safety

POOLS

• Install four-sided fencing around the pool (minimum of 4 feet or 1.2 metres high) with automatic locking gates.
• Do not place chairs or tables near a pool fence, as they could enable a curious youngster to climb over the fence.
• Completely remove pool covers before entering the water.
• Filtration systems should have proper coverings and be checked regularly.
• Remember to tie up long hair to avoid getting it caught in drains or filters.
• Rules should be clear and enforced: NO pushing, NO jumping on others, and NO running on the deck.
• Always have an emergency life buoy, first-aid kit and cordless phone close by.
• Pool maintenance should be done regularly. Store pool chemicals in a safe place out of the reach of young children.
• Empty kiddy pools when not in use.
• Make sure hot tubs have secure covers that children cannot open and never leave an uncovered hot tub unattended.
• Stay alert; alcohol consumption during water activities is not recommended.

SWIMMING

• Make sure the swimming area is properly supervised and designated for that purpose.
• Children should only swim in an area for which they have the appropriate skill level.
• Children should be encouraged to take swimming lessons.
• Children under five should wear properly fitting personal floatation devices or life jackets. This also applies to children over five who are non-swimmers.
• Knowledge of water safety is essential and knowledge of life-saving techniques is an asset.
• The Lifesaving Society offers a “Prevent Drowning at Home” course and free expert counselling in your own backyard about the safety of your pool. Contact them at (514) 252-3100 or online at www.sauvetage.qc.ca.
  

DIVING

• Do not dive into lakes or areas with shallow water. A minimum depth of 3 metres of water is recommended.
• The 3 metre diving board should not be used for general recreational purposes. Proper skill training is recommended.
• Trained supervision is essential.
• For equipment recommendations refer to the Coroner’s report of August 3^rd 2006. Available at http://communiques.gouv.qc.ca/gouvqc/communiques/GPQF/Aout2006/03/c3353.html
• Backyard trampolines are not recommended and should never be used as a launch pad into a pool.

WATER PARKS

• Water parks should be diligent about routine inspection of their equipment. 
• Supervision needs to be vigilant as things can happen quickly.
• Having trained staff on site is essential.
• Users should quickly clear the bottom of the slide.
• Control the number of people on the equipment at the same time.
• Equipment should be appropriate for the child’s age, height, and stage of development.

BOATING

• Wear proper fitting life jackets that meet approved safety standards, regardless of swimming ability.
• Check weather conditions ahead of time. Being on a lake in stormy weather is not advisable.
• Ensure the boat is well maintained and has emergency equipment.
• Never overload or stand in a boat.
• Children should not go out in a boat alone. Skilled supervision is essential.
• Only get out of the boat once it is docked.
• It is not recommended to consume alcohol while boating.

SUN PROTECTION

• Frequently apply waterproof sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
• Wearing a sun hat is recommended.
• Drink water before, during and after activities, and especially while playing sports.
• Wear a pair of sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. Avoid looking directly at the sun.

Trauma Program
(514) 412-4400 extension 23310
2300 Tupper Avenue, C-820
Montreal, Quebec H3H 1P3
[email protected]