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Copyright 2007 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Summer Safety: Tips for the Pool
Swimming and diving into a pool may seem like harmless activities, but every year many people injure themselves because they do not pay attention to proper safety tips.
Incidence of Injury

More than 850 spinal cord injuries result from diving accidents every year. Of those, more than 300 injuries occur at a home pool. A majority of pool-related spinal cord injuries result in paralysis of all four limbs.

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Tips for Injury Prevention

Prevention

Here are some tips developed by the American Spinal Injury Association that can help prevent injuries in the pool.

  • Educate guests about the pool, such as depth markings, lighting, diving board location, surface, and time for use.
  • Set enforceable hours for pool use and secure it with fencing to keep people out during inappropriate hours.
  • Do not allow guests to swim alone or to consume alcohol or drugs while swimming.
  • When the pool is in use, always have someone present who is trained in water safety and life-saving techniques.

Checklist for Pool Safety

Many spinal cord injuries that occur can be prevented! Use this checklist to make sure your pool is safe.

  • Are there depth indicators clearly visible around the pool?
  • Is the pool and surrounding area well-lighted during its use?
  • Do you serve or allow alcohol to be consumed by guests?
  • Do you enforce set hours for pool use?
  • Is your pool secured with fencing to keep people out during inappropriate hours?
  • Does your pool have a designated diving area?
  • Do you have a lifeguard or someone trained in water safety at your pool?

Source: American Spinal Injury Association and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Birmingham, Ala.

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Last reviewed and updated: July 2007
AAOS does not review or endorse accuracy or effectiveness of materials, treatments or physicians.
Copyright 2007 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
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