4 Life-Saving Hot Weather Pool Safety Tips
With temperatures soaring into the 100’s here in Texas and across much of the U.S., a dip into the cool sparkling waters of a swimming pool sounds more enticing than ever. Your backyard pool is like the watering hole in the Lion King, everyone wants to gather around it to beat the heat. When extreme temperatures are nearly breaking your thermometer, the pool is the place to be. Just remember safety first. Here are 4 life-saving hot weather pool safety tips:
Hydration
It sounds like a no-brainer, but when you’re having fun it can be easy to forget to drink enough water. Pro tip: keep a large pitcher of ice water poolside and place it prominently. It’s a visual reminder to drink water and there will be enough for refills galore. Have everyone drink a nice big glass before they go swimming. After all, it’s much easier to stay hydrated than to rehydrate.
Use Quality Sunscreen
We’ve all neglected to put on sunscreen on a hot day, only to rue the decision later. Put sunscreen on 15-20 minutes before entering the pool, so it doesn’t wash off, and use one with high enough SPF to keep you protected. Re-apply every 2-3 hours. Remember that water is reflective, so make sure to put some on your face if you’re going to be in the pool for a long time.
A Shady Oasis
Provide a shady area for swimmers to escape the heat. A big umbrella on the patio does the trick. You can keep lemonade and refreshments in your shady oasis to entice the kids to come out of the sun for a snack break.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a very serious condition that can be prevented by following the tips above. If someone is dizzy, vomiting, has an abnormally fast heart rate, hot forehead, and they appear to be drained of energy, call 911 immediately. Give them water and lay them down in a cool place until emergency services arrive.
Heat exhaustion is a less extreme form of heat illness and may be distinguished from heatstroke. Signs of heat exhaustion include a slow heart rate, fatigue, and nausea, but no vomiting. If this is the case, give the person water and have them lie down in a cool area until the symptoms subside. Emergency services are not usually necessary unless symptoms get worse but for safety sake, have the person rest for the remainder of the day.
At Backyard Oasis, we want you to have the best summer of your life! That means staying safe and cool during these hot days. A swimming pool is just what you need to beat the heat. Check out our fantastic selection at 2200 US Hwy 190 W in Livingston, TX. You can always reach us at (936) 241-0585.
