There’s no better way to cool off on a hot summer’s day than by taking a dip in a cool, refreshing pool. Whether you’re in your own backyard or at a public pool, safety should always come first—and the following tips can help ensure that everyone has a good time.

• Never leave children unattended around water, and never let a child enter the water unless accompanied by an adult. Remind babysitters and others watching kids to provide constant supervision.

• Keep a first aid kit nearby and easily accessible when spending time by the pool.

• Take a CPR course and keep instructions posted near backyard swimming pools and spas.

• Enroll children in swimming lessons as soon as they’re old enough. The Red Cross offers classes for children as young as six months.

• Ensure children in or near water can swim. If they cannot, make sure they’re wearing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets—but do not rely on these devices alone to keep children safe in the water.

• Install pool gates and fences around backyard water sources to keep children and pets safe.

• Establish water safety rules with your family before going near water and enforce them consistently. The Red Cross recommends setting limits for each person based on their water competency.