Swimming pools can provide you with plenty of family fun. Just remember that there are a few rules every family should follow to keep your swimmers safe and smiling…

Pool accidents and drownings can happen in a split instant. So there should always be a designated watcher when children are in or around the pool. This person should be mature, attentive and never on their phone.

Children should learn to swim as early as possible and learning CPR is recommended for the adults in charge of keeping an eye on little swimmers.

Running and horseplay can be dangerous around the pool. So, keep those activities relegated to the yard instead.

Equipment is important too…

A throw ring buoy attached to floating rope or a pool safety pole should be within reach in case of emergency.

Life preservers should be worn by every pool goer who is not adept at swimming and never use a fun pool float in place of a U.S. Coastguard approved personal floatation device.

Pools should be securely enclosed with fencing including a self-latching gate that is out of the reach of children. Alarms on gates, doors and windows with direct pool access are also a great idea.

When your pool is not in use, keep it covered with a safety cover and if you have them, remove ladders.

Anti-entrapment drain covers and safety release systems should be in place, and children should be taught to stay away from pool drains.

Float liners separating shallow and deep ends will also make your pool safer.