Home pools are a great source of fun and exercise while social-distancing. Swimming with family can be some of the most fun and memorable times, however, using pools without proper safety measures can be dangerous. Here are a few tips to keep your family safe in your backyard pool.
Secure the Pool Area
- Fence in the Pool: Your pool should be completely fenced in; a fence at least 4 feet tall is recommended. If your house serves as the fourth side of the fence make sure that there are no gaps.
- Check the Gates & Entrances: Make sure that you have a secure, gated entrance from the fenced perimeter. For safety reasons, you should put some kind of lock on the gate so that children or others can’t easily access the pool. If the house acts as a fourth leg to the fence, make sure any entrances from that side of the house are secured.
- Cover the Pool: Maintain that your pool cover is in good working order. It should be secure and fully cover your pool.
- Maintain Your Pool Equipment: Make sure that all pool equipment is functioning correctly as this will help ensure that your pool stays clean and safe for your family to enjoy. Make sure that you are continuously going over and inspecting your pool.
Plan Ahead of Time
The pool should be a fun and relaxing place. Take safety precautions will make sure that happens.
- Know Your Safety Equipment: You should have a safety kit that is easily accessible for you and your family. Your safety kit should include a first aid kit, scissors, U.S Coast Guard approved flotation devices, and a portable phone, etc.
- Establish Pool Safety Rules: Establish pool safety rules and continuously review them with your family, especially kids. These rules should also be stated to any guests that you have at the pool.
Stay Alert During Swimming
Keep your senses on alert when in the water. Remembering these key steps will save you headaches in the end.
- Swim with Supervision: All kids should always be under close supervision while in the pool. It is recommended that no one swims alone regardless of age or swim level. Accidents can happen to anyone, no matter how much experience they have. If a child goes missing, always check the pool first.
- Practice Water Safety: Regardless of age, it is recommended that everyone in the pool knows how to swim. Again, accidents can happen to anyone. Inexperienced swimmers should have on a floatation device. Whenever possible, make sure at least one person in the swimming group is CPR and first aid certified. These skills will help prevent and aid in any accidents that may occur.
- Shower Before and After Swimming: Don’t just rely on the chlorine! Keep the water clean by rinsing off the germs from your body before getting into the pool. Showering off afterward stops the chlorine from drying out your skin, and washes off the extra germs from the pool as well.
Taking these precautions will help you have peace of mind when your family is enjoying a splash in your pool. Share this blog with other pool owners, and help everyone stay safe while enjoying the water.
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