Need a quick family-friendly pool safety lesson?
Building or upgrading a pool is exciting but also a huge responsibility. Here’s the not-so-fun fact: fatal drownings increased 12% year-over-year, with 2021 being even worse than 2020. You want to prevent your pool from being part of this growing problem.
The reality is…
A lot of pool owners obsess over pool aesthetics but overlook their pool safety equipment. In the age of COVID, people are adding swimming pools at record numbers, but some people forget that safety features are the primary function of any pool and not an afterthought.
In This Blog:
- Why Pool Contractors Recommend Safety Features
- The 7 Most Useful Safety Features For Your Pool
- How To Ensure Your Pool Area Is Accident-Free
Why Pool Contractors Recommend Safety Features
Pool safety means protecting your family from harm. If you have little ones, it’s vital that you and your contractor plan the right safety equipment into your project.
When you hire a reputable pool contractor, they will make sure your pool is as safe as possible before they start building. Companies that provide Pools On The Gulf Orlando and elsewhere, make safety a high priority for their clients because 81% of fatal drownings among children under 15 are in residential pools.
Here’s the thing:
Safety is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s important that you take the time to understand the different features available to you. Your pool contractor can explain what each feature does and help you decide which are a must-have.
The Safety Barrier That Saves Lives
Ok, let’s talk about the number one pool safety feature…
Pool fencing. If you have young children and pets, a fence around your pool is non-negotiable. Pool fences create a physical barrier between unattended children and the pool.
It’s not just any fence, though. A proper pool fence must be at least 4 feet high with no footholds for kids to climb over. The gate must be self-closing and self-latching. In other words, it must close automatically every time.
Vertical slats should be less than 4 inches apart so kids can’t squeeze between them. Plus, use materials that won’t rust or degrade in your climate.
Pool fencing is one of those things where some homeowners feel it ruins their pool’s look. Not true. Modern pool fencing is so sleek and stylish it actually elevates the backyard and keeps all your guests safe.
Pool Alarms for 24/7 Security
You want another layer of security?
Pool alarms are your virtual lifeguard on duty 24/7. These smart devices detect and sound an alert when someone enters the pool unexpectedly.
Types of pool alarms include:
- Surface wave sensors for water movement
- Underwater motion detectors
- Gate and door alarms
- Wearable alarms for toddlers
Best of all:
You can use multiple types for even more coverage. Gate alarms alert you to activity in the pool area. Surface alarms warn you when someone gets in the water.
Today’s pool alarms have smart home connectivity so they send you notifications directly to your phone. If you’re inside, that can mean the difference between a near miss and a disaster.
Safety Covers To Help Keep It Locked
Your pool cover should not just keep leaves out of the water. You need a safety cover.
Safety covers are specially designed to support weight in the unlikely event a child falls on them. Safety covers lie flat on top of your pool when you’re not using it to create an actual barrier.
The key is choosing a safety cover tested to relevant standards. Some cheap covers cannot hold multiple people or might degrade in your area’s climate.
Automatic safety covers are the best choice. With the touch of a button, they cover or uncover your pool. This convenience factor means you’re way more likely to use the safety cover all the time, which in turn keeps your family safer.
Anti-Entrapment Devices To Avoid Hidden Danger
Wait. There’s something else you should know about pool safety…
Pool drain entrapment. Pool drains produce suction strong enough to trap swimmers under water. This can cause drowning. Young children are at higher risk as they lack swimming ability and might not understand the danger.
Anti-entrapment drain covers are federally mandated for public pools, but all private pools should have them too. Drain covers distribute suction force over a wider area to keep swimmers from getting trapped.
Here’s the deal:
Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act is not a joke. It was named after a young girl who died in a drain entrapment incident. Verify with your pool builder that compliant anti-entrapment devices are included during build or remodel.
The right lighting makes a difference
Pool lighting isn’t just for ambiance. Lighting is a safety feature you need around pools.
Bright lighting helps you see clearly when swimming at night. Good pool lights make it easy to spot swimmers in distress. Steps and edges are visible so you don’t miss anything.
Mix overhead lights, underwater lights, and lights on the walkway for best effect. You don’t want shadows or dark areas where accidents can be hidden.
Make sure your pool lights are all waterproof and installed by a licensed electrician. Faulty wiring is one of the most common pool electrical hazards.
Emergency Equipment For Good Measure
Even with the best safety features, accidents can still happen. You need emergency equipment by the pool.
Don’t leave your phone or emergency gear inside when you go swimming. Accidents can happen in seconds, and you can’t afford to waste time.
Your pool-side emergency kit should include:
- A reaching pole or shepherd’s hook
- Life rings or rescue tubes
- A fully stocked first aid kit
- A phone for 911
Store this equipment where everyone can see it. Don’t put it in the garage. Check equipment and supplies regularly and make sure everyone knows how to use it. Practice makes perfect in the event of an emergency.
Non-Slip Pool Deck Materials
Slips and falls are common poolside injuries.
Pool decks and surfaces around pools are slippery when wet. Add energetic kids and splashing about, and you’ve got a hazard waiting to happen. You need non-slip surfaces around your pool.
There are several options:
- Textured concrete surfaces
- Anti-slip coating treatments
- Rubber mats in high traffic areas
- Textured tape for steps and ladders
Perform maintenance to keep non-slip coatings effective. Clean them regularly to prevent algae buildup that could make surfaces slippery again.
Rules and Signage
Safety features don’t mean a thing if nobody follows the rules.
Display clear, visible rules near the pool so everyone can see. Make sure visitors are aware of the rules before they jump in.
Your pool rules should include:
- No swimming without adult supervision
- No running on the pool deck
- No diving in shallow water
- No glass containers near the pool
Kids need to know the rules. Explain why each one exists rather than using the “because I said so” line. When they know why the rules exist to keep them safe, they are more likely to abide by them.
Wrapping Up The Safety Features Guide
Pool safety features are not an afterthought. They are essential safety measures every family-friendly pool should have.
From fencing, alarms, and anti-entrapment devices to lighting, emergency equipment, and non-slip materials, each feature prevents accidents. A layered approach with multiple safety features working together is ideal.
Working with a qualified pool contractor ensures these features are installed properly and comply with local codes and federal regulations. Plus, a knowledgeable contractor knows best practices and new innovations that make your pool safer.
The investment in safety features is worth the money and the peace of mind.
Your family will be safer and you can enjoy your pool knowing you’ve done everything you can to protect them. Don’t wait until after an accident to add safety features. Build them in from the start or update your existing pool.
