Having a pool is a wonderful investment, especially during the summer months when nothing feels better than splashing around. But the benefits of having a pool are sometimes outweighed by the danger that it can present, especially if you haven’t taken the proper safety precautions. There are a few things that you can do to make your pool safe for everyone to enjoy.
Safety Feature 1: Secure Fencing and Gates
All of the problems with pool safety are solved if children can’t get to the pool without an adult. Many cities even require proper fencing and gates around swimming pools to protect children from drowning. Even if you aren’t required to fence your pool, this is a very good idea. You can choose whatever kind of fence you want, just make sure that children can’t slip through any bars. Make sure the locks on your gate are out of reach of children and they latch properly, or they won’t do you any good.
Safety Feature 2: Pool Covers
As an additional precaution, install an automated pool cover to keep people out of your pool. While your fence and gate should keep children and unwelcome guests out of the pool, having a locked pool cover will keep them out even if they do get past the fence. You can get a pool cover with small holes that allow air to circulate under the cover. A pool cover will also you keep your pool much cleaner with less work.
Safety Feature 3: Pool Alarms
If you want to know if something is touching or changing the surface of the water in your swimming pool, then install a pool alarm. A pool alarm attaches to the side of a swimming pool, and you should install it in a location where you can turn it on when you want to monitor the pool for any unauthorized activity. If you get too many false alarms because of leaves or other things, consider installing an alarm on the gate so you know when someone goes through.
Safety Feature 4: Water Rescue Equipment
Even if you are properly supervising your children, emergencies can happen. Make sure you have easily accessible flotation devices that you can use to help anyone who starts struggling. You can get buoys that hang on your fence or inflatable rescue devices. It may be a good idea to invest in arm flotation devices or lifejackets for younger children who are not good swimmers.
Safety Feature 5: Install Security Cameras
While it may seem a little extreme, it can be helpful to install security cameras to protect your pool. If you have people sneaking into your backyard, these cameras can record them and help you or the police identify the trespassers. However, if you do use security cameras, don’t use them as a substitute for watching your children when they are swimming. There can be a delay on the footage or you might not notice and respond as quickly as you would if you were outside.
How Can You Install These Safety Features?
Depending on what you are trying to do, some of these things are projects you can do on your own and some of them will work better with an expert. Make sure you do your research to find the best products and to make sure you know how to properly use them.