Last Updated on April 19, 2017
Summer is here and pool season is in full swing. Make sure your pool remains a safety zone free of hazards and liabilities so you can stay cool in your pool with the the kids and grandchildren for many years to come. The following are some safety tips to help you maintain a safe poolside environment for everyone.
Each year, thoroughly inspect your pool for wear and tear and loose or defective parts. Make sure all components are running smoothly and haven’t degraded over the winter. Check and make sure all pumps are in good working order with no blockages. Make sure all ladders, diving boards and slides are securely attached with no loose hardware. Check that your lifesaving equipment (shepherd’s hook, life ring) is in good working order. Inspect fences and locking gates and make sure they are sufficient to keep young children and uninvited guests from entering the pool unsupervised.
It’s also a good idea to periodically review your homeowner’s policy and increase coverage if necessary. All it takes is one tragic accident and pending lawsuit to really wreak havoc with your world. Discuss your current coverage with your agent and make sure you are carrying enough insurance to protect yourself and your assets.
If you have children or grandchildren using the pool, insist that they learn how to swim. The American Red Cross offers swim lessons for all age and skill levels and also offers a web-based Home Pool Essentials course for homeowners. It’s also a good idea to sign up for a refresher course in CPR and Basic First Aid. Remember, you are the ultimate first responder for any accidents occurring in or around your pool, so you want to be prepared to render aid until EMT’s arrive on scene. Precious minutes are lost when people panic.
Taking the time to make sure your pool is free from hazards shows your family that you are responsible and care about their well-being and that of your guests. Insist teens and children follow your example and your rules while using the pool and always supervise them in the water no matter their swimming skill level. Responsible pool ownership and maintenance go a long way to making sure you’ll have fun in the sun in your backyard pool for many more years.
