Posts Tagged ‘pools’

What To Do In Case Of Drowning

July 28th, 2010

As you know, drowning incidents are far too common and typically involve the lives of young children. Death from drowning occurs when the lungs fill up with liquid, causing suffocation. This then prevents oxygen from reaching vital organs within the body causing cerebral hypoxia and myocardial infarction.

Drowning has remained the leading cause of fatalities among children aged 12 years old and younger in many areas of the world. For example, in the United States alone, it is the second leading cause of death for children of this age (second only behind road accidents.) These incidents do not just occur in pools, lakes and other bodies of water. In fact, kids can be killed in smaller bodies of water, including bath tubs and wading pools.

Drowning rates throughout the world differ based on many factors including national swimming culture, climate and access to water. For example, in the United Kingdom there is approximately one drowning per 150,000 people or 450 each year. In contrast, the United States has 6,500 each year or approximately 1 for every 50,000 people. Victims are usually young, adolescent males.

If a child falls in the pool, how should you react? After pulling them out to safety, try to get them to couch. This will aid in their breathing. Find a warm towel to wrap the child with and hold them close to avoid them going into shock. Try to remain as calm as possible and do not react overly negatively in order to not impact the child’s future fear of swimming and water. If the child is unconscious or has no heartbeat, start CPR and call 911.

If the child seems fine, observe him for the next few days for signs of secondary drowning. This happens up to 72 hours after exposure to water. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, coughing or voice changes. Other signs are mood changes, extreme fatigue or a sudden illness. If you think your kid has inhaled a large amount of water, listen closely to his breathing. Check for gurgled or wheezing sounds that may indicate water in the lungs.

For accessories to keep your child safe around swimming pools, go to NationwidePools.com.

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What Is The Ideal Hot Tub Temperature?

July 11th, 2010

Once you’ve finished with a hard day of work, its always great to come home, relax and soak in your hot tub in order to relieve your tired, aching body. However, you should be aware that it is important to check your tub before heading in. Your hot tub should always be set at the proper temperature. Failure to check this can be extremely hazardous.

According to a U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) warning, excessive water temperatures can severely endanger your health. This is why the CPSC recommends 104 degrees Fahrenheit as the absolute maximum temperature of your hot tub.

Many experts agree that higher temperatures can health ailing bodies. Hot water treatments, including baths, are actually used all over the world. For example, those in Japan bathe in temperatures that reach as much as 115 degrees Fahrenheit. However, in the U.S. and other countries where hot tub temperatures are regulated, this is not the case. This is because these extremely high temperatures are often associated with health problems such as heat stroke.

This warning was actually heeded by hot tub manufacturers who in turn installed controls on their products so that temperatures cannot go above and beyond the recommended level. The CPSC has shows that water temperatures that do exceed a typical persons body temperature can make that individual feel drowsy. This can lead to unconsciousness and even drowning.

If you consume alcoholic beverages before or during your relaxation in the hot tub, you further increase your risk of drowsiness and drowning. So far this year, more than 10 deaths have been reported, three of which involved the use of alcohol in a hot tub of 110 degrees Fahrenheit or greater.

Very hot temperatures should also be avoided by pregnant women since this can harm the fetus. Also at risk are people with heart problems and hypertension. Since heat raises blood pressure, such individuals are more likely to suffer from a stroke, heart attack or even die. Obese individuals should likewise avoid hot temperatures since obesity is usually associated with high blood pressure.

For relaxing and soothing hot tubs at popular prices, go to Discount Spas Direct.

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Emergency Preparation For Child Drownings

July 11th, 2010

Every year 6,000 to 8,000 people drown in the United States alone. Many victims are children who can drown in any body of water. These include lakes, pools, bathtubs or even a big pail of water. To prevent accidental deaths caused by drowning, never leave your kid alone around water. If near drowning occurs, your best recourse is swift action and first aid to prevent death.

Keep your eyes constantly on children around water because a drowning can happen suddenly and without notice. Don’t rush to jump to someone’s rescue if you yourself are not strong enough of a swimmer to do so. Instead, attempt to use a pole or safety device to help reach the victim. Without subjecting others to danger, you can try to reach the child with a device or rope in order to bring them to safety.

Keep in mind A, B and C in case of a drowning incident. These letters stand for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. If you find an unresponsive child as a result of a water accident, make sure that you call for help. While you’re waiting for help, make sure to remove the child from water and put them on a firm, flat surface.

To open the airway, tilt the child’s head back slightly and lift his jaw. Check if the child is breathing and determine whether something is blocking his airway. In the absence of breathing, start rescue breathing immediately. Pinch the child’s nose shut (unless he or she is younger than one year of age) and close your lips around his mouth. Breathe into the child’s mouth twice. Do this gently and slowly.

If you have followed the steps correctly this will cause the child’s chest to rise. If this does not happen, the child’s tongue could be blocking the flow of air or your lips aren’t covering the mouth correctly. If needed, repeat the process and the steps. For the most protection, make sure to get a quality spa cover.

For top quality spa covers at competitive prices, visit Discount Spa Covers.

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Fun Summer Pool Toys

July 7th, 2010

The summer is nearing and the weather is beginning to warm up. As we get closer to these months, more and more people are considering how they are going to spend their leisure time around water. Hanging out around a pool is a great way to spend free time in the heat with friends and family. In order to enhance the experience even further, you may way to consider augmenting your home pool with a few fun toys and accessories. Doing so will add a great, unique element to your already existing oasis.

If relaxation is your goal, consider purchasing some floating chairs for lounging in the pool. Many chairs come with cup holders so that you never have to leave your chair to sip on your favorite beverage. These inflatable chairs come in a wide variety of styles and colors. Shop around for one that best suits your needs. They are typically inexpensive and allow you to get some sun while relaxing on the water.

Maybe sports and recreation are more of your taste. If so, you might want to think about investing in a pool basketball goal or volleyball net. Such accessories allow multiple people to enjoy the pool together in a fun, competitive game. Also, they are a great way to burn a few calories while you enjoy your pool. Family and friends of all ages will enjoy a bit of competitive fun in the pool. If your budget is limited, you might opt for ring tosses and inexpensive beach balls.

For younger children, consider snorkels and goggles. They will be entertained for hours as they explore under the water. They might also appreciate a diving board or slide for your pool. Inflatable toys and dive sticks are also popular for smaller kids. However, always remember that safety is the most important element of summer fun so never leave your children unsupervised around water.

Regardless of what accessories you add you will surely enjoy the luxury and relaxation that comes with spending time in your own pool.

For the most comprehensive selection of in-ground and above ground pools at fantastic prices, visit NationWidePools.com to find the perfect swimming pool for you summer fun activities.

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Trouble Shooting Tips For Swimming Pool Pumps

April 15th, 2010

Here are some great tips for trouble shooting problems you may encounter with swimming pool pumps. If your pump will not power on it might be because of water damage. Use a volt meter to determine if the pump is getting sufficient voltage. Your pump needs to be placed in an area that has good drainage. Flooding from rain can damage your pump.

If your pump refuses to power on, use a volt meter to see if it is getting enough voltage. Pumps must have the appropriate sized wires and proper connections to ensure that they are receiving sufficient electrical power. Pumps have an automatic thermal overload that will shut down a pump down if it overheats. Debris blocking air intake vents can cause overheating. In very hot weather your local electrical utility may have a power shortage. If this is the case, turn off your pump until temperatures decrease.

Noisy pumps can be caused by several reasons. If the pump is not level, vibrations from the base of the pump will cause noise. You can correct this by packing some padding around the base of the pump. A seal with a leak can damage bearings and then the bearings will make noise. Pipes and tubes that are too small for the pump can also make noise. Make sure the piping size is appropriate for your particular pump.

Regulate the automated control or timing control if you notice a steep spike in your monthly electric bill. Set your circulation period for an appropriate interval for the size of your pool. Remember though that electrical rates have increased over the years.

If your pump will not fill with water, the pump might have an air leak. Make sure the suction line has no obstructions. Check the impeller to make sure it has not come off the motor shaft.

Pump covers will extend your pump motor life. However, they are not required. If you do use a pump cover, make sure you do not obstruct the cooling vents. If the cooling vents are blocked, your pump will not have good air circulation and can over heat and then shut down.

A blocked line or a dirty filter can cause water not to flow when the motor is running. A valve that is inadvertently shut off or partially shut off can also cause water not to flow. Inspect the impeller to make sure it is not clogged. If necessary, clean the impeller. A symptom of a leaky pump is air bubbles flowing into the pool. Low water level may cause air and water to combine in the skimmer resulting in this problem.

While the ordinary person can inspect many seals, filters, and other parts on a pump, it is probably a good idea to call an authorized repair person who is experienced working on swimming pool pumps. Always have a licensed electrician for electrical repairs. Electrocution can be fatal. Check your pump’s warranty. While many maintenance routines can be done by a non-expert, it is best to call a qualified expert for serious repairs. Hopefully, these tips will help you enjoy your swimming pool for many years to come.

above ground swimming pool pumps A simple design for a playpen might be a plastic floor with a simple wall that surrounds it and is attached to it. You will get exercise and hydrotherapy at the same time. Below is a list of ways to make your home a solar one.

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