New CPSC Ads Promote Pool Safety
Public service announcements timed for the Fourth of July holiday remind the public of basic steps to prevent drownings.
A new series of public service announcements from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission will inform the public about CPSC's Pool Safely campaign (www.poolsafely.gov) and the simple steps that prevent drownings in pools and spas. The agency timed the series for the Fourth of July holiday; CPSC's partners in producing them are the American Red Cross (www.redcross.org) and the YMCA of the USA (www.ymca.net).
They are broadcast, print, and radio ads being distributed to more than 2,200 media outlets nationwide in English and Spanish and are available on the Pool Safely YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/poolsafely). "Our new PSAs are intended to remind parents and children to stay safe in and around pools and spas by practicing as many water safety steps as possible," said CPSC Chair Inez Tenenbaum. "The Pool Safely campaign encourages everyone to adopt new safety behaviors while having fun in the pool. It's important to remember that every drowning incident represents a family tragedy."
The steps cited in the ads are door alarms, knowledge of CPR, swimming lessons, fencing around pools and spas, and safety drain covers in spas. "It's important that families are aware of the simple steps that can make a big difference around the water," said Connie Harvey, a water safety expert for the American Red Cross. "Sharing that knowledge through PSAs is a great first step to helping parents and children stay safe while enjoying their summer activities." Mike Espino, Aquatics Safety and Risk specialist with YMCA of the USA, noted millions of children learn to swim and learn safety around pools and spas at their local YCMAs. He said the ads “remind parents and children about the importance of staying safe in the water. The YMCA of the USA is proud to partner with CPSC on the Pool Safely campaign because it supports our efforts to help families stay safe and be responsible around pools and spas."