Reporter Nancy Needham on page 8 tells about April Pools Day last Thursday at Los Robles Hospital, and no, that’s not a misprint.

On the occasion of April Pools Day, hospital representatives and public safety officials discussed the dangers of swimming pools for children and toddlers.

The use of swimming pools will soar when hot weather arrives. And the number of swimming pools per capita in the Conejo Valley must be one of the highest in Southern California, which is one of the most popular places in the world for swimming pools.

Remember: It’s entirely too easy for children to drown.

The reasons are many—an unlocked door or an open doggy door, preoccupation with a phone call, a ring at the door bell or some other distraction.

A few seconds of inattention can be fatal.

Pool fences and safety covers help, but accidents can also occur when a pool is in use and adults are present.

Kids are different because of parenting and genetics. Some are bold, some are afraid, and some go through phases of both. It’s important to remember, too, that small children don’t understand the concept of danger.

Whenever kids are in swimming pools, an adult must watch over them, acting as a lifeguard.

Establish rules if you have a pool.

Nobody should swim alone, not even an experienced swimmer.

Drinking or drugs aren’t smart if you plan to swim.

Running at poolside isn’t a good idea.

The greatest danger and the biggest tragedy, however, is when a child drowns.

That’s a story we pray that we never have to write.