It’s Late Summer But Always Remember Pool Safety

Like the first robin is to spring, the opening of the backyard pool is the true harbinger of summer. As summer turns to fall, continue to ensure that your pool remains safe for your family and guests, as well as anyone who may stumble onto your property. State laws vary on the duty owed to unintended visitors. Follow these pool safety rules to make sure you do not end up in court for personal injury or wrongful death.

Good fences make good neighbors, especially when you have a pool. Many municipalities have regulations requiring fences for both inground and above-ground pools. Make sure you know and comply with these. Equip your fence with self-closing, self-locking gates – especially if you have children or there are children in the neighborhood. If the house provides direct access to the pool, doors should be alarmed to give an audible warning whenever someone uses them.

Make sure you have emergency equipment. A long pole and a life ring can help you to assist distressed swimmers. An easily accessible first aid kit, oxygen and an external defibrillator are also good to have on hand. Post emergency numbers poolside for quick use.

Regularly check your drain covers to ensure they are in working order and will prevent little feet from getting caught in the drain. Some pools have an emergency shut-off that will automatically stop the suction from a pump when the drain is blocked.

Children must be supervised at all times. It takes only a few minutes for a victim to drown. Moreover, drowning can occur in as little as two inches of water. Make it clear to visiting parents that they are responsible for supervising their children if you do not provide a lifeguard. If you allow your children’s friends to use the pool without their parents, you are responsible for supervising them. Learn CPR.

Finally, when your pool is not in use, cover it so that no one can use it without your permission. Summer is a great time to relax, play and share good times with friends. Following these rules will help you keep it that way.