Health Tip: Rules for the Pool

(HealthDay News) -- Accidental drowning is a leading causes of death among children, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

So what can you do if you have a backyard pool?

Take some precautions, and insist on a number of safety rules, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. The academy offers these suggestions:

• Make sure a fence completely surrounds a permanent pool, and that the gate is always locked when the pool isn't being used.

• Never let anyone swim alone, unattended, even for a few seconds.

• Children 4 years or older should take swimming lessons.

• Make sure all toys are kept away from the pool when no one is swimming.

• Completely drain inflatable pools after they are used.

• Don't allow any electrical appliances, tricycles or other riding toys near the pool.

• Never allow diving in a pool that isn't deep enough.

• Don't allow children to run on a pool deck.