The Fun Of A Backyard Pool Has Hazards Too!
Enjoying a backyard pool is an incredible experience, but there is a lot of responsibility that goes with owning one. Follow the suggestions below on backyard pool safety to keep your summer fun and accident free!
Keep Your Pool Environment in Check
As a pool owner, safety is always number one. Simply follow these guidelines to make sure your family and friends are protected around your pool:
• Completely surround your pool or spa with a 4-foot or taller pool safety fence and use a self-closing, self-latching gate
• If your house serves as a fourth side of a fence around your pool, install door alarms
• Place an pool safety cover on the pool or hot tub when not in use and remove any ladders or steps used for access
• Install and use a lockable pool safety cover on your spa
• Always completely remove the pool or spa cover when in use to avoid someone becoming stuck underneath it
• Consider installing pool and gate alarms that go off if anyone enters the pool
• Make sure your pool or spa has anti-vortex main drain covers to prevent children from being trapped by the suction of the drain
• Keep your pool or hot tub water clean and clear and maintain proper chemical levels, circulation and filtration
Maintaining your swimming pool water is a multifaceted process due to the number of factors that must be controlled. Often times pool maintenance is thought of as periodically adding a sanitizer, adjusting the pH and cleaning the filter. In actuality, swimming pool maintenance is far more. The following link above can give you a better understanding of it. – Swimming Pool Water ChemistryWater Chemistry
Play It Safe in the Water
Summer weather and swimming pools just naturally go together. Swimming should be a fun activity, but it is also important to always play safe using these tips:
• Children should always be under active supervision. Adults should remain within arm’s reach at all times
• Require kids to always seek permission before going near the pool, as well as respect posted “pool rules” such as “no diving” and “swim with a buddy”
• A responsible adult should be assigned to watch the water when anyone is in the pool—never allow people to swim alone
• Everyone sholuld know how to swim well and what the proper responce to emergencies is. Water safety, first aid and CPR courses should be taken by everyone
• Young children or inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets in and around the pool
• Appropriate equipment, well maintained, should be kept handy. Poles for reaching, lines for throwing, a cell phone, life jackets as well as a first aid kit should always be available
• Everyone should apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply every few hours
• Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water regularly!
Common Pool Safety Rules:
• No running
• No diving
• No pushing or horseplay
• Never swim alone
• No glass bottles or drinkware around the pool area
• Children only with adult supervision
• Keep all gates locked at all times
• Always wear and reaply sunscreen
Contact the local Red Cross office for information on water safety, pool safety, first aid and CPR classes.
Make Your Pool Party a Splashin’ Success
If you have a backyard pool you know you’re going to throw a few awesome pool parties right? Follow these tips to ensure your pool party is a success:
• Provide extra towels for guests who forgot to bring their own
• Set aside a room for your guests to use for changing into swim suits
• Place pool furniture at the edge of the pool and put tables in between
• Umbrellas are a must for guests who prefer the shade
• Provide plenty of inflatable pool toys for play in the pool
• Make sure the depth of your pool is marked with waterproof tape for safety
• Provide extra sunscreen and bug repellent for guests to use
• Provide plastic cups to avoid any hazard of broken glass
• Citronella candles or torches can add ambiance as well as keep biting insects at bay
• Consider giving out party favors such as flip-flops, beach balls or sunscreen for guests to take home
Cool Pool Party Themes
• Hawaiian luau
• Mexican fiesta
• Beach barbecue
• Under the sea / mermaid
• Pirate adventures
• Patriotic / American
Reminders for Pool Safety and Liability:
• When around the pool, consume alcohol in moderation.
• Review your homeowners policy for any limitations it might have regarding a pool and associated equipment
• Call us if you have questions about a policy or to be sure you’re getting the best rates. (334)-285-2881
Pool Safety Resources You May Find Helpful:
http://www.poolsafely.gov/pool-spa-safety/staying-safe-pools-spas/residential-swimming-pools/
http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/water-safety/home-pool-safety
http://safety.lovetoknow.com/Backyard_Pool_Safety
http://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/entertaining/food-drink/host-dipping-party/toys-summer
http://autopilot.com/blog/post/244-What-are-The-Appropiate-Levels-for-Chemicals-in–a-Swimming-Pool-