Learn more about pool safety for children.
With so many people under shelter-in-place guidelines, homeowners with the forethought of having a swimming pool installed in their backyard have caused a lot of envy in their neighborhoods. Despite limited gatherings, this is the perfect place to rest and relax as you wait out what is quickly becoming a long-term pandemic.
Pool builders are certainly excited about the prospects of new pool construction and pool remodeling, but whether you’re a new or existing pool owner, safety must always be a priority. To get you started, we’ve compiled eight tips that will help ensure safety for children who live in your household or come by to take a dip.
Place a Fence Around the Perimeter
Pool safety for children should always start with preventing them from getting close to the pool without your knowledge or permission. Installing a fence around the perimeter with slats that can’t be squeezed through and a locked gate is a great way to keep kids of all ages out of harm’s way.
Invest in a Swimming Pool Cover
Despite the security that a perimeter fence offers, you definitely don’t want to stop there. A protective pool cover will stop children who get past the fence from falling in. These covers can be manual or automatic and can be secured with a padlock for an extra level of security.
Repeat the Rules Over and Over
Repetition is often necessary for children to fully understand the importance the following rules. Before your kids get into the pool, have them repeat the rules such as no diving into the shallow end, no running on the deck, no horseplay, and whatever other rules you’d like to implement. Just remember no number of rules will prevent you from keeping an eye on your children around the swimming pool.
Teach Basic Swimming Techniques
If your child doesn’t have a lot of experience with swimming, be sure he or she is aware of some basic techniques. These techniques include floating or treading water, turning around in a full circle to find an exit, and exiting the water without the use of a ladder. This will give them more confidence in the water and help ensure they stay safe.
Professional Swimming Lessons
The best way to ease your mind in regard to pool safety for children is to provide them with swimming lessons. A professional swimming instructor can successfully step them through the process even in situations where a child may be nervous to enter the water. He or she will always keep safety at the top of the priority list.
Always Ensure Proper Supervision
Even though you’ve delivered all the rules and guidelines you can muster, pool safety for children requires adult supervision at all times. You must remember that kids are still kids and safety guidelines may very well take a back seat to having fun. If you’re the only adult around and you need to walk inside, have everyone get out of the pool and move to spot where you can watch them and make sure they don’t get back in until you return.
Remove Objects from the Pool Deck
A well-designed pool deck will provide a level of traction so that adults and children are less likely to slip and fall. However, if you leave objects littered around the deck, this may cause a hazardous situation. Remove anything that doesn’t belong, including beach balls and other toys, and place them away from the pool in a safe location.
Contact Larsen’s Pool & Spa for New Pool Construction or Remodeling
Providing pool safety for children should always be at the top of your to-do list when considering a new pool construction or remodel. Larsen’s Pool & Spa can help you design a swimming pool experience with safety in mind. To learn why we’re the best custom pool builders in Tampa or to inquire about our swimming pool financing opportunities, give our experts a call at (727) 786-7665.
