Summer is here, and often it’s time to do it yourself, remodel the house, and add new things, including the pool! If you already have a pool or are considering investing in one, we wanted to share some pool safety and maintenance tips to ensure your summer is filled with great family memories. and friend.
According to the US Product Safety Commission, 47% of children are injured while swimming in residential pools. We believe these 13 safety and maintenance tips are essential for anyone who owns a pool.
Pool safety tips:
- There is an above-ground pool safety fence (5 ft or more) and locked access around the pool area and deck.
- Consider installing self-closing and self-latching pool safety gates.
- Never leave children alone in water or swimming pools.
- Teach children essential water safety tips and enroll them in swimming lessons.
- Less experienced swimmers should be accompanied by a swimmer who knows CPR.
- Install your doorbell, gate, or pool with an audible pool safety alarm to alert you if someone enters the pool area or falls into the pool unattended.
- Have life-saving pool safety equipment in the pool area, including life jackets, poles or lifeguards.
Pool maintenance tips:
- Keep electrical equipment, including outdoor entertainment systems, away from swimming pools or wet surfaces.
- If you use electrical appliances outdoors, be sure to plug them into the GFCI (ground fault circuit breaker).
- Keep pool chemicals safely stored away from the pool area.
- Keep pool and deck areas free of glass, toys, or other accident hazards (e.g., protruding nails, loose boards, etc.).
- For above ground pools, check the metal supports for rust or damage. These signs can indicate areas where the pool could break or a person could be injured.
- Make sure your pool has the right anti-clog drain covers and check them regularly.
For more information on pool safety, please see the CDC website for pool and hot tub owners.
