Put on the goggles and enjoy the health and recreational benefits of swimming in your pool on Swim a Lap Day on June 24. The history of swimming goes back to the ancient Greeks and Romans who built artificial pools for athletic training, nautical games and military exercises. There’s no better way to enjoy a beautiful summer day than by swimming in the pool!

Here are six tips to keep your pool in tip-top shape and swimmers safe and sound, and having fun.

  • The American Red Cross says secure your pool with a four-foot-high fence or barrier with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Place a safety cover on the pool when not in use and remove ladders or steps.
  • Keep children under supervision. Have young or inexperienced swimmers wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket or learn-to-swim flotation devices. Equip you pool with safety signs, water rescue equipment — such as throw ropes, life rings and reaching poles — and a conveniently located first aid kit.
  • If you don’t use a pool service, keep your water clean and clear by maintaining proper chemical levels, circulation and filtration. Regularly test and adjust chemical levels to minimize risk of earaches, rashes or more serious diseases.
  • Stock up on nose clips, earplugs, swim caps, goggles, snorkeling gear, masks and fins.
  • Outfit your pool with water polo equipment. Have fun with swim noodles, kickboards, floats and lounges, inflatable mattresses, beach balls, water guns and cannons, and aquatic toys and games.
  • Learning to swim is one of the best ways to be safe around the water. The American Red Cross says people of all ages learn to swim through its programs. The National Swimming Pool Foundation offers homeowners training and resources such as the basics of pool maintenance.