Summer Days Are Here: Swimming Pool Safety Tips
Swimming is one of the most entertaining and healthy recreational activities for the warm weather. When temperatures begin to soar, pools provide an excellent way to cool off and spend quality time with friends and family. While it is great to have a swimming pool on the property, the lack of proper safety measures can make it hazardous, especially for kids.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the primary cause of death among children aged 1 to 4 years and the second leading cause in kids aged 1 to 14 years in the USA. The majority of these fatalities occur at residential swimming pools. Therefore, pool owners need to ensure that their swimming pools have the required safety measures to avoid tragic incidents.
Here are a few tips to ensure pool safety for stress-free enjoyment this summer season:
Install a pool fence
The first step towards ensuring pool safety is installing barriers such as fencing surrounding the backyard swimming pool. Four-sided fencing provides an essential layer of protection and blocks easy access to the pool. Keep the pool fence a minimum of four feet high with a self-closing and self-latching gate.
Use drain covers
Improperly covered drains result in various injuries. When children accidentally swim or play near the drain, their hair, swimming costume, limbs, or jewelry can get caught in the drain. Cover the drains correctly and ensure that the drain cover is not missing, loose, or broken. Homeowners should also know the location of the emergency vacuum shut-off. Teach children not to swim near the drains.
Ensure supervision at all times
Never leave kids unsupervised in or near the pool, even for a few seconds. Constant vigilance is crucial. All family members should know pool safety rules and learn to perform CPR. Always keep an emergency phone first aid kit, rescue equipment, floatation devices, and scissors near the pool area.
Invest in alarms
Install alarms on any door that gives access to the pool area. The device can send off an alert if someone tries to gain unauthorized access to the pool. Keep the sound of the alarm distinct from other alarm systems in the house. Consider wave alarms that detect movement in the water and raise alert when something or someone falls into the pool.
Store chemicals safely
Every pool requires chemicals to maintain proper water balance. These chemicals can prove hazardous for children. Never leave the chemicals out in the open and always store them safely in an area out of children's reach.
Perform timely repairs
Ensure that the pool ladder, railing, and deck area always stay in prime condition. If there are any defects or damage, carry out repairs on time to prevent injuries from tripping and falling.
Additional pool safety tips
Ensure regular pool cleaning and maintenance and always keep the pool in the best shape.
Children and adults should learn to swim and understand essential water safety tips.
Install a lockable pool safety net or cover.
Avoid using phones while watching the children.
Use correct floatation devices and never consider them an alternative to adult supervision.
Do not keep sharp objects near the pool area.
Swim safely this summer
A backyard swimming pool means endless summer fun for kids and adults. Contact a local pool expert to learn more ways of increasing pool safety.
If you have a pool need, whether it’s service, renovation, repair, lighting, or something else, call Magic Matt’s Pools at 623-255-2239 today!
