Do you follow the 10-20 rule?

By Heather

By Heather
While attending the UL Safe and Swanky Event during BlogHer, I spoke with a water safety expert, Denise, about rules for the pool. I felt pretty confident about my awareness of the rules since I have researched and written about pool safety before (see Swimming pools and wild toddlers don’t mix).

Then Denise asked me if I followed the 10-20 rule. Oops, I didn’t know that one. And she told me a few more great tips too:

10/20 rule. She said you should always scan the pool every ten seconds to be sure everyone is okay. You should never be more than twenty seconds away from the edge of the pool in case somebody needs help.
Toys are toys. Denise reminded me not to use floatie toys as safety or rescue devices. Always put toys away at the end of the night to avoid tempting a little kid to reach in the pool for it.
Life vests are UL-tested. UL partnered with the Coast Guard to test and certify floatation vests. Look for the UL mark as well as recommended age and size range before you buy a life vest; always make sure the latches are secure; test the vest for proper fit each season since children grow quickly.
Call for help. Keep emergency numbers printed out in a visible location. Keep your cell phone handy to call those numbers too! I always have my phone, but do I always know who to call? I guess there’s always 911.

Do you follow the 10-20 rule? I follow it now.