The city of London, Ont., has had an exemplary record in terms of residential pool and spa water safety thanks in part to the relationship developed between the London/Middlesex Health Unit and the Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada’s (PHTCC’s) western Ontario chapter.
The two organizations have worked together in preparing a variety of pool and spa safety brochures, bus shelter signs, radio ads, and most recently a television public service announcement (http://youtu.be/qOxqe0X-2b4).
The ads draw attention to basic components of pool and spa safety, including supervision, keeping children within arms reach, using personal floatation devices, and the importance of swimming lessons. Both the radio and television ads may be broadcast in other communities across the country.
“The team from London has recognized drowning prevention is best achieved by improving the level of awareness among citizens,” says PHTCC executive director, Rob Wood. “Educating the public on the importance of adopting a layered approach to safety goes a long way toward supporting local pool enclosure bylaws.”
The special efforts of chapter president Josh Randall (Josh’s Gas Service), Markus Brunner (Forest City Pool & Patio Inc.), and various other members of the western Ontario chapter are greatly appreciated in this regard, added Wood.
