Pool safety tips to prevent child drownings

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (WABC) -- It's the unofficial start to summer and we've got temperatures warm enough to go swimming.

It's loud! 15-year-old Faith and her 5-year-old brother Dennis demonstrated what a pool alarm sounds like that's 85 dB to prevent drowning.

"There are 390 deaths from child accidental drowning across the US each year," said Kate Murray, the Hempstead Town Supervisor.

The Town of Hempstead started to require them in 2008 and they have not had a child drowning since.

"Residents of Hempstead are required by law to have it and a 5-foot nonflammable fence and gate that closes automatically and locks," said Don Clavis, a Hempstead tax receiver.

"What could happen if you go in the pool and the alarm isn't on?" Eyewitness News asked.

"You could sink, sink," said Dennis Bentivega, a swimmer.

It's not just about in the Garman offense, it's also about having rescue equipment on hand in case there's an emergency.

5-year-old Margaret knows what she wants to do when the weather gets hot.

"Go swimming!" and her grandmother says it pays off her backyard pool owners to follow the requirements.

"You have to be so careful and cautious, everyone needs to do it," said Nancy Bentivega, a pool owner.

"So no one falls in the water and drowns," said Faith Bentivega, a swimmer.

The Town of Hempstead has put out a safety pamphlet with the laws and reminders about how to stay safe this summer.

When it comes to water accidents, seconds count. If a child is missing, the first place to look is the pool.

Learn more: http://toh.li/news/1293-murray-prevent-tragedy-before-it-occurs-this-summer-pool-safety-brochure-details-life-saving-measures