Some of these submersions result in permanent brain damage. The key to preventing these tragedies is to have layers of protection. This includes placing barriers around your pool to prevent access, using pool alarms, closely supervising your child and being prepared in case of an emergency. You should consider the following tips to help prevent drowning and injury:

Fences and walls should be at least 4 feet high and installed completely around the pool. Fence gates should be self-closing and self-latching. The latch should be out of a small child’s reach.

If your house forms one side of the barrier to the pool, then doors leading from the house to the pool should be protected with alarms that produce a sound when a door is unexpectedly opened.

A power safety cover — a motor-powered barrier that can be placed over the water area — can be installed and used when the pool is not in use.

Keep rescue equipment by the pool and be sure a portable phone is poolside with emergency numbers posted. Knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be a lifesaver.

For above-ground pools, steps and ladders to the pool should be secured and locked or removed when the pool is not in use.

If a child is missing, always look in the pool first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.

Ensure that your pool and/or spa have the newer anti-vortex drain covers. They are dome-shaped versus the flat-type and prevent hair, clothing or body part entanglement.

Regularly check the electrical outlets to the pool and spa lights, including all the exterior outlets around the pool, to make sure that they are ground-fault protected.

For more on this or other home care subjects, contact Scott at www.scottsauer.com.