Commit to Pool Safety During National Water Safety Month
As an inground pool owner, you’re responsible for more than just maintenance; you’re accountable for the safety of your friends and family as they enjoy the summer pool season. Did you know that more than 200 children drowned in pools and spas in 2013 season alone?
To keep your children safe this summer, you should follow a combination of practices to ensure the summer season is a safe one. May is National Water Safety Month – the perfect time to recommit to safety and to reeducate yourself on these best practices as we head into swimming season.
Safe Swimming Practices
While many pool safety practices are common knowledge, it’s still important to instill the following habits in your friends and family:
- If you haven’t learned to swim, stay out of the pool. If your children are just learning to swim, equip them with a life jacket in and around the pool.
- Develop and share your safety plan with family, friends and neighbors.
- Take a CPR class and keep those skills fresh in case of an emergency.
- Never leave children unattended in or near the pool. If for any reason you need to stop supervision, ask your child to leave the pool until you can devote full attention again.
- Keep a telephone nearby when your family is enjoying outdoor activities to ensure a quick response in case of an emergency.
- Have a pool safety kit nearby equipped with a first aid kit and a floatation device to aid someone in case of drowning.
Safety through Maintenance
Pool safety is more than just watching what happens in the water; it’s about securing the pool structure and the water contained in it. Follow these guidelines to keep your inground pool safe for swimming:
- Secure your pool by placing a fence with a locked gate between your pool and your home. Many children drown from falling into the pool accidently.
- Make sure your main drain covers for both your pool and spa are VGB compliant and have not expired.
- Install a Safety Vacuum Release System that will shut the pump off automatically in case of a blockage. An alarm will sound and will not stop until the owner has taken action.
- Use qualified professionals to replace, repair and maintain your equipment.
- Keep the quality of your water at the proper pH levels at all times by regular testing.
- Store all pool chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.
When it comes to safety measures, you can’t be overly cautious. Take the time to educate yourself – and your guests – on pool safety.
