Water Safety

Home Pool Safety

Owning your own pool will add value to your property, and provide you with hours of enjoyment. By following a few safety precautions, spending time in a home based pool can be a terrific summer activity.

Pool safety

The two most important safety rules for pool owners are that everyone who gets into the pool should know how to swim, and nobody should ever drink when they will be in the water. Drinking alcohol before getting into a pool can lead to tragedy. When you drink, it slows down your reflexes and natural reaction time. Statistics show that the leading factor in all drowning victims was the use of alcohol while in the water. It is also important to know how to swim if you're going to spend time in a pool. Those who are not swimmers should remain in the shallow end.

Another essential rule is to never swim alone. When you get into the pool, have someone nearby who can help you if you get into trouble. If someone does have a problem in the water, it is important to know how to handle the situation. Never swim out to anyone who may be drowning, as they will be in a state of panic and are likely to pull you under the water. Keep a few life saving devices such as a length of rope, pole or life preserver close by. Toss something to the person in the water that they can grab on to, and pull them to safety. Don't endanger yourself while attempting a rescue.

CPR is a simple technique that can save a life. Pool owners should take a class in CPR, and know how to resuscitate someone who has stopped breathing after being under water. It is also important to keep a phone near the pool at all times, and let your guests know where it is so anyone can find it quickly and call 911 in case of emergency.

Some pool specifics

Diving into a pool may be a lot of fun, but can be very dangerous. Before diving, always find out how deep the water is to be certain you will not risk colliding with the bottom of the pool. If the pool has a cover, take it completely off before diving in, or using the pool in any way. It is very easy to become trapped and disoriented under a thick pool cover.

Listening to music or enjoying other forms of entertainment can greatly enhance your time in a pool, but always keep in mind that water and electronics are a deadly combination. Place any electrical appliance far away from the pool, and keep them off the ground and elevated so they can not get wet.

Spending time in the sun can be harmful to your skin. Purchase a good, water proof sun screen and keep it near the pool. Offer it to guests and anyone who will be outdoors for any length of time.

Pool owners with children

Swimming is a great activity for children, but younger kids must always be supervised when they are in a pool. Never let children in the water without a reliable adult close enough to see them at all times.

A pool is a big attraction to kids. Parents may want to consider putting up a locking fence or gate that completely surrounds the pool so children can't get in on their own. Keep ladders or anything else a child could climb up on away from the gate so they aren't able to get over it. Never leave toys near the pool, as they will only encourage children to look for a way to get to the water.

If a child is missing at any time, the pool should be the very first place you look. Always remember that in most cases of child drownings, the children did not splash around or call for help.

A pool can be enjoyed by your family and friends all summer long. Take steps to ensure your time at the pool is a safe and happy experience for everyone.