Barbara Greenspun remembers 1961: Parents, pool owners must be vigilant

Friday, Sept. 22, 2000 | 9:10 a.m.

How well I recall Hank's anger and frustration when county commissioners refused to pass a code that would make swimming pools safer. Every year as summer approached, Sun readers could count on a column warning about the perils of unfenced swimming pools. It was an annual crusade.

When the tiny son of our managing editor became a victim, we all agonized over the terrible tragedy.

Hank vowed to continue a vigorous campaign to force public officials to recognize the fact that small children are attracted to water and the consequences can be heartbreaking.

Today regulations regarding the fencing and gating of pools are in place, but somehow, every summer, a tiny tot is the victim of near drowning or death.

Constant vigilance on the part of pool owners and parents is as important today as it was when little Tony Anselmo drowned in a neighbor's pool.

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