Summer is almost here! That means it’s time to uncover your backyard swimming pool, break out the suits, and dive in for some fun and sun. But if you have little ones, pool safety should always come first. Whether this is your first summer as a backyard pool owner, or just your first summer with kids or pets in the mix, pool safety tips are something all swimming pool owners need to know.
From features like pool fences and safety nets, to alarms and the importance of general pool rules, pool safety will help you maximize your fun and peace of mind this summer. We’ve compiled a list of pool safety tips and features to help you have your best, safest summer possible.
Pool Safety Features and Products
You don’t need to immediately go out and buy every pool safety feature on the market. However, knowing what is out there can help you make an informed decision to find the best products to keep your family safe.
Pool Fences
One of the simplest ways to increase the safety in your backyard swimming pool is to make sure you have a barrier installed between the water and the open air. This safety barrier reduces the drowning risk for small children and pets alike. There are a few different types of safety features or barriers on the market. The most popular and most cost effective option is a pool fence.
There are many different pool fences on the market. We advise you look for a model that is well reviewed, tall, and can be installed by a professional if needed. Take a closer look at the fence brand Life Saver Pool Fence on the blog here.
Automatic Pool Covers
Automatic pool covers are a new innovation in pool maintenance that have been gaining popularity in recent years. As the name implies, automatic pool covers require no manual effort. Instead, owners can close and open their safety cover with the press of a button. Homeowners love automatic pool covers for the convenience and hands-off approach they offer to owners.
One of the biggest drawbacks to traditional pool covers is that they are generally bulky, heavy, and generally hard to maneuver. Automatic covers eliminate this problem by requiring no manual movement or storing. This said, you do pay a price for convenience, and automatic pool covers are more expensive than both pool fences, and our following safety feature, pool safety nets.
Pool Nets
Pool Net by Katchakid
A pool safety net is a net made of an extremely strong material blend that uses tension to create a netted barrier between the surface of a swimming pool and the open air. To create this tension, a central tension device is installed, allowing the pool owner to place and remove the net. When pulled all the way shut, the net becomes extremely taut, creating a surface tension that is similar to that of a trampoline.
To install, pool contractors will place anchors around the perimeter of the pool. These are permanent installations, and are set into the deck so as not to become safety hazards. Once installed, they will stay in place until the pool is modified or the decking or coping is removed.
Pool nets are extremely effective when used properly, and can fit to any shape of pool or spa. Generally speaking, they are less expensive than an automatic pool cover, but also are less convenient. However, they are also one of the most aesthetically pleasing and low profile ways to keep your pool safe.
Pool Alarms
Another effective method to up the safety in your swimming pool are pool alarms. Pool alarms work by alerting homeowners when something or someone makes contact with the water of your pool when you are not expecting it.
The alarm’s sensor is triggered by waves created when something breaks the surface tension or falls into the water. This means when anything enters your pool while the alarm is set, you will hear your pool alarm go off. Even when you are not in sight of the pool, you know immediately something or someone has made contact with the water of your swimming pool. This is great for homeowners with outdoor pets, frequent wildlife visits, or just concerned parents who want additional peace beyond a pool fence.
Pool alarms are great because they work on both inground and above ground pools. There are three types of pool alarms on the market–standard entry, pool gate, and user entry alarms. The right pool alarm for your home will depend on the type of pool you have and any additional precautions you are currently taking.
Drain Covers
When building a new pool, it is common knowledge that all pool’s should be built with two main drains. This is required to prevent drowning caused by main drain entrapment. In addition to this standard building protocol, all drains should be equipped with drain covers as well.
Drain covers are generally affordable and can be purchased from your local pool supply store, or online at sites like Amazon or online pool equipment sources. A final safety feature that is essential to pool safety are drain covers
Pool Safety Tips
Products and pool features aside, there are also some standard pool safety tips that all families with backyard pools need to be practicing. From setting limits and rules with your children, to remembering sun safety, the following tips and tricks can help keep you and your kids safe this summer.
Implement Pool Rules
The first trick to a safe swimming pool is setting ground rules with your children. While kids want to have run, parameters should be set to make sure they remain safe. Talk to your kids about basic pool safety rules and explain why they are needed to prevent injury and accidents.
Basics like no running, no roughhousing, and no diving in shallow water should be explained and enforced. Setting boundaries with your children can be tough, but when it comes to swimming pools, they can save lives.
Always Supervise Children
It should go without saying that small children should not be left unsupervised around bodies of water. While items such as pool fences and pool alarms can help to keep children safer in the yard, no children should be left unattended while swimming.
Be Sun Safe
Water is not the only thing that can ruin a great day at the pool. Sun safety goes hand in hand with pool safety. To avoid painful and dangerous sunburns, make sure you and your kids are applying a high quality sunscreen. Sunscreen should be applied before swimming, and every hour or two to make sure it remains effective.
Watch The Weather
Finally, once you’re in the pool it can be hard to bring yourself to get out. But inclement weather should always be a signal that fun in the water needs to come to an end. Storms conditions like rain and lightning can pose a danger to swimmers. Part of any great day at the pool is knowing when it’s time to pack it up and come home.