Video:Host a Safe Pool Party

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Transcript:Host a Safe Pool Party

Hi, I'm Angela de Jong-Angelici for About.com Parenting. Hosting a swimming party for kids is a great way to cool off and have fun. But making sure your party is safe should be your number one priority.

Ask Parents to Accompany Their Child

First of all, your invitations should be very clear that this is a swimming party. And this is not the kind of party where you can drop off your kids. A responsible adult or parent needs to stay with their child.

Set and Post Pool Safety Rules

Set some rules in advance. You can post the rules at the party and make sure everyone sees them. A few important ones: no running in the pool area and no diving.

Make sure and have tables and chairs set up in an area away from the pool if you plan to serve food. And let guests know that food and drinks are not allowed in the pool area.

Buy Swimming Floaties and Swim Diapers

Have a good supply of floaties on hand in case some of the children do not have any. You can get the arm bands and noodles for a pretty reasonable price.

Also make sure you have an extra stock of swim diapers. If the child is not completely potty trained, then they must wear a swim diaper.

Stock up on Sunscreen and Water

Add plenty of sunscreen and water to your supply list. Even if it is cloudy, everyone should apply plenty of sunscreen and re-apply every so often.

And make sure everyone drinks enough water. Even though you are immersed in water, you are still out in the sun.

Set Rest Breaks for Children

One great idea is to set rest breaks for everyone about once an hour. Have some frozen popsicles on hand to encourage the kids out of the pool.

Assign a Life Guard

Make sure you have an assigned adult on duty at all times to act as a lifeguard. And each adult that will be handling that duty should not consume alcoholic beverages.

To help out with this responsibility, call your local community center or recreation department and hire a certified lifeguard for the party.

Be Prepared for an Emergency

Contact your local Red Cross and get trained in CPR before your party. If you are a pool owner, this training is a must.

Knowing what to do before it happens will put your mind at ease. And keep a phone and a first aid kit handy at all times in case of an emergency.

Check your homeowner's insurance and make sure you are covered for a special event such as this one. You may need to purchase additional insurance to cover the party.

Check the Pool Water

The night before the party, test the water in your pool. Make sure your levels are all perfect and add any chemicals you may need to make sure it is safe for swimming.

Once you have safety covered, you can relax and have a fun party. To learn more, visit us on the Web at parenting.about.com.