Pool Safety
The sizzling days of summer are here, and there is no better way to beat the heat than in a pool.
There are many positives to owning a pool, like hosting pool parties. However, there are also safety risks that can open homeowners up for insurance claims. Here’s what you need to know to keep your family and guests safe from pool-related incidents.
Safety around your pool
- Create a barrier around your pool. Install a fence with self-closing gates and check your city’s laws regarding fence standards for home pools.
- Install locks on all unsupervised entrances. Ensure your fence has locks to prevent unsupervised access to the pool. If a door in your home has direct access to the pool, add a lock and an alarm to that door.
- Have easy access to pool safety items. Keep ring buoys, reaching poles, and a first aid kit in a close and accessible spot. Make sure your family knows CPR in case of an emergency.
- Check for hazards around the pool. Do not allow glass bottles or electronics near the pool and remove any tripping hazards. Do not allow running in the pool area.
Safety in your pool
- Sign your children up for swimming lessons as early as possible. Teaching your kids to swim is essential if you own a pool.
- Ask all guests if they know how to swim. Prior to allowing anyone to enter the pool, ask if they know how to swim. If they don’t, ensure a trained swimmer accompanies them.
- Never leave children unattended. According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of death for ages 5-14. Never leave children unattended near the pool.
- If you have a diving board, have safety rules. Post the rules and the depth of the diving area in eyesight of the diving board. Make sure the diving area is clear, and never allow diving outside of the designated area.
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