While
residential pools
can mean hours of summer fun for your family and friends, safety must be at the forefront of the fun. By following a few simple rules, you will be able to enjoy your
pool
for years to come accident and injury free.
The most important thing residential pool owners must remember is to guard access to their pools to make sure young children don’t wander in on their own. Residential pools must be fully surrounded by a fence that is no less than 4 feet high (check with local ordinances). An additional layer of protection to prevent drownings is to consider installing an in home alarm system that goes off if someone enters the water when you’re not outside. There are also power safety covers that can be installed which completely cover a pool when not in use and prevent a child from getting into the water without adult supervision.
- In addition to the 4 foot fence, alarm system and pool covers, pool gates must be self-closing and open out from the pool.
- For above ground pools, secure or remove the pool ladder when the pool is not in use, or surround it with a barrier.
- Remember to check your equipment regularly to make sure it’s in good working order.
- Make sure children don’t have access to or can reach the control devices.
- Remember, even portable pools can be dangerous. Make sure to fence them or cover, empty them or put them away when not in being used.
- Never leave a child unattended in or near the water.
- Enroll your children in swimming classes at a young age so they know how to swim.
- Encourage all members of your family to never swim alone and always have a buddy.
- Maintain the proper chemical levels in your pool.
- Install VGB drain covers.
- Keep your pool equipment maintained, including pumps and drains.
- Teach your family the pool rules that might include things like, no diving.
- Have cell phones handy to call 911 in an emergency along with the address and contact person.
- Keep dangerous pool chemicals stored where young children can’t get to them.
- Follow the local, state and federal regulations regarding pool maintenance. You can ask at a local pool company or call the Department of Health or your local authorities if you have any questions or to find out about any additional requirements for pool owners in your city or state.
If you’re in need of a legal consultation, call Harris Law today at 231.347.4444 or fill out the free consultation form in the sidebar to schedule your free personal consultation.