Insurance Information Institute Says a Safe Pool Season Means Carefully Following Safety Tips

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NEW YORK, May 22, 1997-- Swimming pools can be a lifesaver when temperatures start to soar, but they can also be dangerous, warns the Insurance Information Institute.

Every year about 43,000 people are injured in and around swimming pools and more than 600 people drown in home or public schools. Half of the pool fatalities occur in the yards of single-family homes.

"Practicing safety at all times and setting and following pool rules can help ensure a fun-filled pool season," says Loretta Worters, Director of Public Relations for the I.I.I.

In addition to using caution and good sense, parents should supervise all pool activities. "Never leave small children unsupervised -- even for just a few seconds," cautions Worters.

The I.I.I. offers these tips for a safe and enjoyable swimming pool season:

• Be sure all pool users know how to swim. Learners should be accompanied by a good swimmer.
  
  
• Don't swim alone or allow others to swim alone; make sure there's somebody nearby who can answer a distress call. Check the pool area regularly for glasses, bottles, toys or other potential accident hazards.
  
  
• Keep CD players, radios and other electrical devices away from pools or nearby wet surfaces.
  
  
• Don't allow anyone who has been drinking alcohol to use the pool. Stay out of the pool during rain storms or during thunder or lightning.
  
  
• Treat diving boards with respect. Never dive into an above-ground pool and check the water depth before plunging into an in-ground pool. Also keep clear of the area near a diving board.
  
  
• Keep children away from pool filters, as the suction force may injure them or prevent them from surfacing.
  
  
• Don't swim if you're tired or just finished eating.
  
  

The Insurance Information Institute is an educational, fact-finding and communications organization sponsored by the property/casualty insurance industry.

CONTACT: Loretta Worters, Public Relations, of Insurance Information Institute, 212-669-9200