Are you planning to install a pool in your backyard for some summertime fun? If so, there are a few important steps you must consider first. After all, having a body of water in your backyard is potentially dangerous, especially for small children. As the owner of a swimming pool, it is your job to keep it as safe as possible.

In many cities, fences of a certain height or type must surround all swimming pools. You may need to built a special pool enclosure or fence in your entire property. Some cities even place restrictions on the type of gate or lock used, to ensure that no children can get in accidentally. Find out the rules in your area before you begin pool installation; otherwise, you might commit to the pool only to later realize that you must upgrade your property to prevent your swimming pool from becoming a hazard.

Responsible pool owners can, and should, go beyond city rules in making their swimming pool as safe as possible. This begins with the gate. Keep it locked at all time, and install a gate alarm, which will sound if the gate is opened.

The pool itself must also be protected. While this is important if you have kids living at home, it is still necessary if the pool is meant to be enjoyed by adults only. Neighborhood children will quickly learn how to access your pool if you don’t take steps to keep them out. Cover the pool with a hard cover during the offseason, while will protect the pool from falling children, not to mention leaves, bugs, and other debris.

A pool alarm is another essential safety feature. If someone does happen to gain access to the pool area, and falls or jumps into the water, this small alarm will alert you to the presence. It simply attaches to the pool sides, and must be disabled before you enter the water. A pool alarm can give you valuable seconds to get the child out of the pool without serious harm. Pool alarms are especially important in neighborhoods with lots of young children around, as they might not know better than to jump into an unattended pool.

If you do have children, or there are kids in the neighborhood, instruct them on pool usage before the pool is installed. Require the kids to ask your permission before entering the water so that you can be sure someone is outside to supervise them.

Even if there aren’t kids using the pool routinely, keep flotation devices on hand for family members and guests. If weak swimmers want to enjoy your pool, these will come in handy. If your pool is particularly large or deep, keep lifeguarding floats on hand, just in case. Even strong swimmers who spend a long time in your pool can develop cramps and need assistance.

No matter what type of pool you are installing, above-ground or in-ground, diving or play, you must consider the safety of your family, guests, and neighbors. Making your pool less accessible to uninvited guests, particularly children, and making sure no one can use the pool without you knowing about it will go a long ways towards preventing pool accidents.

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Category: Advice
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