Swimming pool safety should always be at the top of your mind every swimming season. It is, tragically, all too common to hear reports of people who drown in swimming pools, all the more so because it is usually children 5 and under who drown. As a reminder, here’s a video that includes some important pool safety tips.

Every in ground pool should be surrounded by an in ground pool safety fence with a self-closing, automatically latching gate. The latch should be located high enough on the gate that children cannot reach it.  Above ground pools should have an above ground pool safety fence that installs around the decking or the edge of the pool. Keep tables and chairs away from fences to prevent anyone from climbing over. Even if you don’t have children in your own home, you never know when a little one will walk by and be tempted to try out your pool. A swimming pool is what is known legally as an “attractive nuisance” and you are legally liable if someone is injured in your pool and you have not taken appropriate measures to prevent unauthorized access.

If you do have children who live in your household, or who visit you occasionally, a pool alarm is a valuable safety device. Available for both in ground and above ground pools, the alarm senses water displacement and sounds an alarm when anything weighing more than 15 pounds enters the water.

In addition, there should be rules for your pool:

• No running near the pool
• No horseplay
• Never swim alone. ALWAYS have a “buddy” present
• Children should always be supervised by an adult who is IN the pool.
• Take rest breaks to prevent becoming overtired

Pool safety covers are also an excellent idea. These safety covers are strong enough to support a fair amount of weight in case someone ventures onto the surface of the covered pool.

Be sure your swimming pool is clearly visible from inside the house at all times of day (and night) to ensure that the pool is not in use when it shouldn’t be.

For more information on swimming pool safety you can check out this excellent resource.

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