6.3.2.1: Lifesaving Equipment

Each swimming pool more than six feet in width, length, or diameter should be provided with a ring buoy and rope, a rescue tube, or a throwing line and a shepherd’s hook that will not conduct electricity. This equipment should be long enough to reach the center of the pool from the edge of the pool, should be kept in good repair, and should be stored safely and conveniently for immediate access. Caregivers/teachers should be trained on the proper use of this equipment so that in emergencies, caregivers/teachers will use equipment appropriately. Children should be familiarized with the use of the equipment based on their developmental level.

RATIONALE

Drowning accounts for the highest rate of unintentional injury-related death in children one to four years of age; this lifesaving equipment is essential (1).

TYPE OF FACILITY

Center, Early Head Start, Head Start, Large Family Child Care Home, Small Family Child Care Home

RELATED STANDARDS

1.4.3.3 Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training for Swimming and Water Play

REFERENCES

1. Safe Kids Worldwide. 2016. Keeping kids safe in and around water: Exploring misconceptions that lead to drowning. Washington, DC: Safe Kids Worldwide. https://www.safekids.org/research-report/keeping-kids-safe-and-around-water-exploring-misconceptions-lead-drowning.