Swimming Pool Savvy

There’s nothing better than a refreshing dip on a hot day. Keeping your pool a fun place for friends and family to gather, means keeping safety top of mind. Here are some simple things to remember.

• Enclose your pool with a secure fence that children can’t climb over or squeeze through. Generally, fences need to be at least four feet high – but check with local code officials to get requirements in your area. Fence gates should be self-latching and self-closing with handles that are out of reach of small children.
• Use non-slip material on decks and ladders. Steps on pool ladders should be at least three inches wide with handrails.
• Don’t leave children unattended.
• Make sure people who use the pool are familiar with how deep it is. Injuries frequently result from diving or jumping into shallow water.
• Don’t drink and dip.
• Be careful on ladders and the pool deck. They can be slippery.
• Keep toys out of the pool when kids are finished playing with them. It eliminates the temptation to reach in and get them.
• Stay away from drains, grates and other coverings with openings. Small changes in pressure can create suction that can trap unsuspecting swimmers – especially small ones.
• Never swim alone.
• Make sure you have rescue equipment close to the pool.
• Do regular pool maintenance. Check for sharp edges and loose bolts. Make sure ladders and drain covers are secure. Check electrical equipment regularly.
• Consider alarms (underwater or surface) and pool safety covers if you have children.
• Keep glass and electrical devices away from the pool area.
• Stay out of the water in thunderstorms.