To enter and exit a swimming pool safely, various methods can be employed, with the safest approach from the poolside involving a controlled slide into the water.
Ensuring safety is paramount when entering or exiting a swimming pool. The method you choose often depends on the pool's design, your swimming ability, and the presence of supervision.
The Safest Way to Enter from the Side
Based on video guidance for teaching safe entries and exits, the most secure method for getting into the water when you are at the side of the pool is a controlled, seated entry. This technique prioritizes stability and minimizes splash, making it ideal for all ages, especially beginners or when the water depth is uncertain.
Here's how to perform this safe entry:
- Sit Down on Your Bum: Position yourself at the very edge of the pool deck, with your bottom seated securely on the edge, facing the water.
- Turn Onto Your Stomach: Gently rotate your body so you are lying on your stomach, with your hands placed on the pool deck or gripping the edge.
- Slide Gently In: Slowly slide your body into the water, feet first. Maintain control by keeping your hands on the edge until you are fully in the water and can stand or push off.
Other Common Pool Entry Methods
While the seated entry is highly recommended for safety, other methods are commonly used depending on the pool's features:
- Using Steps: Many pools have steps built into the shallow end. This is a very gradual and safe way to enter.
- Walk down the steps slowly.
- Use any available handrails for stability.
- Maintain three points of contact (two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot) with the steps or railing.
- Using a Ladder: Ladders are common in deeper sections of pools.
- Face the ladder, placing your hands firmly on the side rails.
- Descend one rung at a time, ensuring your feet are stable before moving to the next rung.
- Walking In (Shallow End): Pools with a gradually sloping shallow end allow you to simply walk into the water.
- Enter slowly, assessing the depth as you go.
- This is particularly good for young children or those who prefer a gradual acclimation to the water.
Important Note on Diving and Jumping: Diving or jumping should only be done in designated deep areas of the pool, by experienced swimmers, and never in areas where the depth is unknown or insufficient. Improper diving can lead to serious injuries.
Safe Pool Exit Methods
Exiting the pool safely is just as important as entering. Generally, the methods for exiting are the reverse of the entry methods, focusing on control and stability.
- Using Steps:
- Approach the steps from the water.
- Place your feet firmly on the steps and use handrails if present.
- Walk up slowly and deliberately.
- Using a Ladder:
- Swim to the ladder and grasp the side rails firmly.
- Place your feet on the bottom rung.
- Climb out one rung at a time, keeping your body close to the ladder.
- Exiting from the Side (Edge): For pools without steps or ladders, or when in deeper water near the edge, you can exit by boosting yourself out.
- Swim to the edge and place your hands flat on the deck.
- Kick your legs in the water to create upward momentum.
- Push down with your hands while lifting your body out, swinging one leg out of the water first, followed by the other. This requires upper body strength.
General Pool Safety Considerations
| Entry/Exit Point | Description of Use | Safety Note |
|---|---|---|
| Pool Side (Sitting) | Safest general entry method, especially for beginners or uncertain depths. | Always check water depth before sliding in. |
| Steps | Ideal for gradual entry and exit, common in shallow ends. | Use railings if available for stability. |
| Ladder | Used for vertical entry and exit, especially in deeper sections. | Face the ladder; climb one rung at a time. |
| Shallow End Ramp | Allows for a gradual walk-in or walk-out. | Excellent for young children and those who prefer low-impact entry/exit. |
Always remember to:
- Supervise Children: Never leave children unattended near or in a pool.
- Avoid Running: The pool deck can be slippery; always walk to prevent falls.
- Know the Depth: Be aware of the water depth before entering, particularly when using methods other than a gradual walk-in.
- Locate Safety Equipment: Know where life preservers, shepherd's crooks, and first-aid kits are located.
