The summer heat wave has caused many pools to become crowded with families looking to cool off. The Loudoun County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management encourage residents to follow these water safety steps:

• Children should swim only if a lifeguard or an adult gives permission and is present to supervise.
• Teach children to obey the posted rules.
• Make sure pools and spas are enclosed on four sides with a fence at least five feet high with a self-closing and latching gates.
• Drains in pools and spas should have anti-entrapment drain covers.
• Learn infant and child CPR and always have a phone near the pool for emergency use.
• It is recommended that children over the age of three should have swimming lessons.
• Children using air-filled swimming aids should always be supervised by an adult within arm’s reach.
• A U.S. Coast guard approved lifejacket should be worn for water sports such as tubing, skiing or jet skiing. Air-filled aids such as inner tubes, water wings and inflatable rafts are not substitutes for approved lifejackets

Encourage children to:

• Check with the lifeguard to find out how deep the water is.
• Always swim with a buddy.
• Never jump or dive unless the lifeguard or an adult says it is okay to do so.
• Don’t eat candy or chew gum when swimming.
• Never swim at night.
• Get out of the water right away if you hear thunder or see lightning.
• When on a boat, everyone needs a seat and his or her own U.S. Coastguard approved lifejacket.

For more information contact Laura Rinehart, public information officer at 703-771-5332.