There is something special about having a pool on your property. It creates the perfect environment to relax and unwind, as well as stay cool on hot summer days. Of course, there are some risks that come with owning a pool, including an increased chance of injury or even death.
To ensure that you, your family, and your friends always have fun, there are some ways to prevent swimming pool accidents. These include the following:
1. Be Alert and Close
It only takes seconds for something bad to happen, so to keep yourself and your family safe, it’s in your best interest to always be alert and close to your pool. This is imperative if you have small children who will be swimming, but it can also benefit adults who may not be strong swimmers.
It’s also recommended that people never go swimming alone — no matter how skilled they are. Having another person in the area who is paying attention could save a life or at the very least prevent an accident from occurring.
2. Keep the Pool Secure
Adding fencing around your pool is a great way to ensure that kids can’t access it without a parent present. It’s also a good idea to pick up any toys that aren’t being used to remove trip hazards. If you use a pool cover, make sure to take this completely off when people are swimming.
Should you be worried about people sneaking into the pool to go for a swim, you might consider putting an alarm system in. This will ensure that everyone is safe and doesn’t use the pool without supervision.
3. Stay Hydrated
Taking a dip in the pool during a hot day is a great way to cool off. When having so much fun in the sun, it doesn’t take long to get dehydrated. Without enough water, a person can get dizzy or lose focus, which can increase the risk of accidents. Encourage everyone to drink enough water throughout the day.
If you are having a pool party with adult beverages, it’s incredibly important that people stay hydrated and aren’t going over their drinking limit. Alcohol can impair judgment and slow reflexes, which could lead to serious injuries or even death around the pool.
It might be in your best interest for one or more people to remain sober and make sure others aren’t overindulging.
4. Take a CPR and/or First Aid Class
You can’t always prevent accidents from occurring, but you can be ready if an issue arises. Consider taking a CPR and/or first aid class so that you know how to help someone if they get into an accident in or around your pool.
It’s also a good idea to keep a phone near the pool so that you can call emergency personnel, if necessary.
5. Know Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities
It’s impossible to prevent all accidents from occurring. If the pool is on your property, you could be held liable for any injuries that might arise. Should you be at a friend or family member’s house when the accident occurs, you need to know if the expenses you incur will be covered.
It’s in your best interest to be informed about your legal rights and responsibilities, and talking to a premises liability lawyer can help.
Making Pools as Fun as Possible
Having a pool in your yard is supposed to be fun and relaxing. However, accidents can happen at any time, but doing what you can to prevent them is in your best interest. Make your pool as fun as possible by taking the necessary steps to prevent accidents and to be prepared if they occur.
