Before water relaxation or wet and wild fun in the pool this year, experts suggest making the necessary preparations to ensure swimming pool playtime is safe, healthy and worry-free.

“Parents continue to make strides when it comes to safeguarding their families around the pool,” said Michele Hlavsa with the Healthy Swimming program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Swimming pool safety is a must for every family.”

Here are some simple poolside health and safety tips.

•Protective barriers. Learn what types of enclosures, such as self-latching fences or gates, should be used to keep children from entering the pool while unattended.

•Keep poolside areas clutterfree. To prevent accidents such as slipping and falling into or around pools, make it a point to pack up pool toys and supplies that are not in use.

•Check for healthy, safe water levels. Swimming pools can be unhealthy if pool water is contaminated. The CDC recommends testing pool water at least three times a week for active sanitizer (chlorine, bromine, other), pH, total alkalinity and other water conditions if the pool is not being used. If use of the pool increases, test more often.

•Set pool parameters. Establish guidelines for children and visitors. Talk to children about swimming only when an adult is present and never going to the bathroom while in the pool. Test water levels for cleanliness before each use, and make sure all pool patrons understand the dangers of running, jumping and diving into and around pools.

These simple swimming pool safety tips can help your family enjoy the pool, knowing it’s safe and healthy.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.