【英语时差8，16】母亲担心游泳池的安全

 Dear Annie:

I have four daughters under the age of 10. We live on a quiet suburban¹ cul-de-sac, which we value as a safe place to raise our family. Last year, a new family moved in and we've become friends with the entire family. My children love to play at their house.

The problem is, last week the "Smiths" announced they are putting in a swimming pool. I'm now terrified for the safety of my two youngest children. When I asked what measures they are taking to protect the neighborhood children, Mrs. Smith made it clear that adding locks to their gate and buying a pool cover would be adequate. She made it clear that my children's safety is my responsibility.

Now I feel like I have to lock my kids in our house. What should I do? － Tossing and Turning in UtahDear Utah:

To some extent, your neighbor is right－you are ultimately responsible for your children's safety, and you must be vigilant². We strongly urge you to teach your children to swim. You also should tell them not to go near the pool unless they are supervised by an adult. The Red Cross offers swimming lessons, CPR courses and safety tips. Find your local chapter in your phone book or through redcross.org.

1 suburban   

adj.城郊的，在郊区的

参考例句：

• Suburban shopping centers were springing up all over America. 效区的商业中心在美国如雨后春笋般地兴起。
• There's a lot of good things about suburban living.郊区生活是有许多优点。

2 vigilant   

adj.警觉的，警戒的，警惕的

参考例句：

• He has to learn how to remain vigilant through these long nights.他得学会如何在这漫长的黑夜里保持警觉。
• The dog kept a vigilant guard over the house.这只狗警醒地守护着这所房屋。