Last Updated on January 1, 2023
Your pool can provide a much-needed respite from the heat, especially during hot months. If you have children, you know how enjoyable playing in the water can be. You just need to make sure that they are safe while in the swimming area. Pool safety rules can help.
The thing about rules is that every household has different versions of them. Some may enforce one rule, while others may not. As the homeowner, you just need to find rules that work best for you and your family.
If you are yet to find the right combination of rules, here are some pool safety ideas that you should consider.
Pool Safety Rules You Should Impose
Use the pool stairs
Many people are used to entering the pool at the sides, even jumping into the water. This can be fine for most, but it opens opportunities for accidents, especially if the jumper is not mindful of those already in the water. Some even use the sides to get out of the pool.
Encourage swimmers to use the stairs when getting in and out of the water because this can minimize the possibility of accidents.
No food
Hanging out in the pool is definitely fun, especially if you are with your friends and family, complete with refreshments like your favorite snacks. However, keep in mind eating around the pool can be a choking hazard, especially if they are playing around, or worse, swimming while eating.
Remind your friends and family not to eat while in the pool area to avoid accidents that could lead to fatalities.
No drinks
If eating is not allowed, then surely eating is, right? What you should remember is that most drinks come in transparent containers, such as plastic cups and bottles. These could be fine when kept out of the water.
The problem starts if they fall into the water. They become difficult to see because they are transparent and can hinder people from swimming properly, which could lead to accidents like drowning.
No glass bottles in the swim area
One common rule you will find in residential and public pools is to avoid bringing anything made of glass into the swimming area, not only because it can blend into the water, but also because it can break and cause serious wounds.
No running and rough play
Most swimming areas are made of times which can be slippery when wet. Anyone who runs or plays rough has the risk of slipping, resulting in wounds, injuries, and even fatalities.
Tips for Enforcing Pool Safety Rules
These five rules can increase your residential pool safety. However, proper enforcement is required in order for it to work. Here are some tips that can help make it work.
Place a Sign
People tend to follow their senses, and vision is one of the most compelling ones. Aside from talking to them about the rules, having visual aid can help you remind them of the dos and don’ts.
Your sign would be much better if they have images accompanying the words. Simple icons like a cross over symbols for food, drinks, and bottles can have a huge impact.
Be Alert
Adults should be alert so that they can take immediate action in case a child or animal accidentally falls into the water. What you should remember is that children drowning is not quite what you expect it to be.
Many people think that drowning individuals tend to make a lot of splash and noise to alert you of their situation. However, the reality is that kids can drown even without making such commotions, which means that the incident will fall under the radar until it is too late.
Have the Right Equipment Nearby
If anything happens, you want to make sure that you are equipped to handle the situation. For example, if someone who does not know how to swim falls into the pool, you should have a flotation device near you.
You should also have a first aid kit nearby in case anyone gets hurt while in the swimming area. You might also want to get a certificate in first aid, to equip yourself with the skills and knowledge about how to address these situations.
Having all these things handy can increase your response time, minimizing the possibility of escalating the situation.
Install Barriers
One thing you should remember is that some states and localities impose rules and regulations on residential pools. For example, California and Nevada have pool fence laws. As the homeowner, it is your responsibility to abide by these policies.
Even if you are in a state that does not require pool fences, you can decide to install one. These barriers can help minimize accidents, especially those involving people with disabilities, kids, and pets.
As a general rule, you might want to get fences that are at least five feet high without anything that could serve as footholds and handholds, without significant holes that can let kids and pets through.
The bottom of the fence should also be close enough o the ground to prevent them from crawling under. A self-closing and self-latching gate should also be installed.
Get a CCTV Camera
Investing in a CCTV camera can also help you monitor not only your swimming pool but also the surrounding area. This gives you the ability to review footage in case something happens. Plus, you can also use it to keep track of the situation even if you are not there.
Do Proper Maintenance
Maintaining your pool is essential and cleaning is a significant part of it. Remove any debris that can damage the plumbing including the filter. You should also make sure to remove trash like plastic bottles and any broken glass if present.
The Bottom Line
Pool safety should be your number one priority as a homeowner. If you want to make sure that your friends and family are safe while enjoying their time swimming, these safety rules and tips can help you improve your chances.
