Illinois Homeowner Liability for Swimming Pools
Having a swimming pool is a great way for families to enjoy Illinois summers, but swimming pools are also a hazard that cause 300 drowning deaths a year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Although swimming pools are considered in themselves an obvious hazard, homeowners may be liable for accidents that occur in their pools, and many homeowners insurance policies take specific note of swimming pool liabilities and may have special requirements for insurance coverage.
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Swimming Pool Accidents
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According to the Center for Disease Control statistics, one in four fatal drowning victims are children under the age of 14. Drowning is the second leading cause of death in children ages one to 14.
Legal Requirements for Swimming Pools
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The problem is there is a wide variation on each community's requirements for swimming pool safety. Some communities require fencing of a certain height around each residential swimming pool, usually four feet tall, with a locking gate. Pools in outlying areas, however, may not require this measure. Other requirements may be self-closing gates, screened enclosures, drain covers, and pool alarms.
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Insurance Requirements for Swimming Pools
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Property liability insurance has two aspects. One aspect is to insure the property against damage. Another aspect is liability for accidents that may occur on the property for which the homeowner may be legally responsible. Insurance provides money for medical costs and civil actions against the homeowner. Most homeowners carry approximately $100,000 in property liability insurance, but homeowners with swimming pools are often advised to carry more than this amount. In northern states like Illinois, where swimming pools are only used for part of the year, it is still important to have coverage for any accident that may occur in or around the pool area year-round.
Swimming Pool Safety
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Owning a swimming pool confers special obligations for the homeowner. No child should swim unsupervised in the pool. A fence at least four feet tall and gates with self-closing locks should be installed. Audible alarms that sound when movement is detected in and around the pool should be installed. Rescue equipment should be on hand. Do not leave toys or swimming aids in the pool when finished swimming that might attract children. Learn CPR in case of accidents.
How to Reduce Your Liability Risk
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Install gates and make sure the latches are in good working order and are above the reach of children. Keep rescue equipment, such as rescue ring or shepherd's crook, in the pool area. Do not depend on pool covers to prevent drowning. Instruct visitors and babysitters about pool hazards and remind them never to be distracted by phones, TV, or other guests. Do not assume that because a child can swim or is wearing a flotation device there is no risk of drowning.
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References
- Photo Credit boy in swimming-pool image by Marzanna Syncerz from Fotolia.com
