06/22/2026
PSA: Pool & Water Safety This Summer
As temperatures rise and families head outdoors to enjoy pools, lakes, rivers, and water parks, the Springtown Police Department reminds residents that water safety should always be a top priority. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, often in less than a minute, making constant supervision and proper safety measures essential.
Water Safety Starts with Adult Supervision
The most effective way to prevent drowning is active adult supervision.
* Always keep children within arm's reach around water.
* Designate a responsible "Water Watcher" during pool parties and gatherings.
* Avoid distractions such as cell phones, reading, or household chores while supervising swimmers.
* Never assume another adult is watching your child.
Remember: Drowning is often silent and may not look like the distress portrayed in movies or television.
Secure Your Pool Area
Even if your pool meets ordinance requirements (detailed below), additional safety measures are strongly encouraged:
* Keep gates locked when the pool is not in use.
* Install pool alarms where possible.
* Remove toys and floats from the water after swimming.
* Use approved safety covers when appropriate.
* Ensure rescue equipment is readily available.
Learn to Swim
Swimming lessons help children and adults develop critical water survival skills. However, swimming ability does not eliminate the need for supervision. Even experienced swimmers can encounter emergencies due to fatigue, medical issues, or unexpected conditions.
Wear a Life Jacket
When boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or enjoying area lakes:
* Wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
* Ensure children wear life jackets near open water.
* Do not rely on inflatable toys or pool floats as life-saving devices.
Be Careful Around Lakes and Natural Waterways
Natural bodies of water can present hidden dangers, including:
* Strong currents
* Sudden drop-offs
* Underwater hazards
* Changing weather conditions
* Reduced underwater visibility
Always swim in designated areas and never dive into unfamiliar water.
Alcohol and Water Don't Mix
Many water-related accidents involve alcohol. Alcohol affects judgment, balance, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of drowning and boating accidents. If you're swimming, supervising children, or operating a watercraft, stay sober and alert.
Learn CPR
Every parent, grandparent, caregiver, and pool owner should consider becoming CPR certified. Immediate action before first responders arrive can save a life during a water emergency. Visit redcross.org to find local CRP classes.
In an Emergency
If someone is struggling in the water:
1. Call 911 immediately.
2. Reach or throw a flotation device if possible.
3. Do not enter the water unless you are trained in water rescue.
4. Begin CPR if trained and necessary.
Build Safer Pools
As a friendly-reminder, private pools within the City limits must follow certain safety regulations. To help protect children and prevent accidents, the City of Springtown has adopted safety regulations for residential swimming pools.
Residents should be aware that:
* Swimming pools require a building permit before construction.
* Pools two feet deep or greater must be enclosed by a fence or wall at least six feet tall.
* Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, and lockable.
* Pools cannot be located in required front yards or side yards adjacent to a street.
* Pools must be at least eight feet from property lines.
These requirements help reduce unauthorized access and protect children from accidental drowning. Residents planning to install a pool should contact the City Hall at (817) 220-4834 before beginning construction.
Make Safety Part of Summer Fun
A few simple precautions can prevent tragedy and help ensure everyone enjoys a safe summer season. The Springtown Police Department encourages all residents to review pool safety practices, follow local regulations, and remain vigilant whenever children are around water.