Philadelphia (July 2002)--There is one time when it’s okay to “go off the deep end” according to Magee Rehabilitation Hospital. That’s because you can never do enough to assure the safety of family and friends in and around swimming pools.

Studies sponsored by American Spinal Injury Association and the Orthopedic Research and Education Foundation have shown that each year more than 850 spinal cord injuries (SCIs) result from diving accidents. Of those, nearly 300 happen at home, either in above-ground or below-ground pools.

SCI diving accidents typically happen to young men between the ages of 15 and 25. And--the majority of pool-related spinal cord injuries result in the paralysis of all four limbs, leading to life-long disability and lifetime medical costs of more han one million dollars.

Magee asks you to seriously consider these facts and take the following basic steps to help prevent pool-related spinal cord injuries.

• Clearly mark the depth of your pool. Depth indicators can discourage diving in shallow water.
• Install and use adequate lighting. Setting a timer for automated lighting can add to nighttime safety.
• Do not serve or allow alcohol use by pool guests.  Have a water safety person present at pool parties.
• Educate guests about pool depth and safe diving areas. Do not permit unsupervised swimming.
• Fence the pool to control usage.