Pool Safety: Is Your Pool Up to Par?

Swimming is a popular pastime during the summer months. Children especially enjoy playing and swimming in pools, both public and private.

Unfortunately, pools are often a source of danger. According to the American Red Cross, more than 250 people will be seriously injured or killed in accidents in and around swimming pools every year. Thankfully, many of these accidents and injuries can be prevented if pool owners follow recommended safety guidelines.

Swimming Pool Safety Checklist

Too many pool owners don’t do their part when it comes to pool safety. More attention is given to the pool’s routine maintenance than to safety. Follow the American Red Cross’s pool safety checklist to keep those swimming in your pool as safe as possible:

1. Have a fence that is at least four feet high around the perimeter of the pool with a self-closing gate.
2. Every pool needs a pool alarm that alerts you when anything falls into the water.
3. When not in use, cover the pool and remove all ladders.
4. Children must have a responsible adult with them at all times when in or near the pool. The adult must stay alert and keep eyes on the water when anyone is in the pool.
5. No one should ever swim alone.
6. Have life jackets on hand for small children to wear that are approved by the Coast Guard.
7. All members of the household should know how to swim and what to do in case of a poolside emergency.
8. Clean water is crystal clear, not murky or cloudy. Test the water frequently so there isn’t too much or too little chemical in the water. Unclean pool water can cause rashes, ear infections, or disease.
9. Post a list of rules in the pool area, and make sure everyone understands them. Go over the rules before anyone enters the water, even if they already know what the rules are. Don’t give any child the chance to forget how to behave around the pool.

Safety should be your first priority if you have a swimming pool. Follow the American Red Cross checklist to avoid injuries.

Contact a Premises Liability Attorney Today

If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of a swimming pool, you are urged to contact the Indianapolis Premises Liability Attorneys of Wilson Kehoe Winingham. The lawyers at WKW can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 317.920.6400 or fill out an online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

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