Private Swimming Pool Safety
Private swimming pools can be a great addition to any house. Having the ability to enjoy your own pool at any moment within the privacy of your own backyard is enticing. However, swimming pools also can be a serious hazard. Accidental drowning can result from careless actions around the water, so establishing safety rules is an important part of pool ownership. In the end, it can save lives and prevent tragedies. Does this Spark an idea?
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Water Safety
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Pool safety is very important for both homeowners and guests. Negligence can lead to a tragic accident. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 3,582 people died in 2005 from accidental drowning. The CDC goes on to state that one of four drownings are children under the age of 14. These statistics point out the particular importance of pool safety for families with children. Various equipment and preventive steps will make your pool a safe location.
Pool Barriers
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Pool barriers are available in a number of forms and styles, and some municipalities require them if you install a pool in your yard. Fences or walls can be constructed around the pool to keep people away from the property. If built high enough, these barriers can keep children from getting too close to the pool without proper supervision. If you install a wooden fence in your yard, be sure that children cannot climb over or squeeze between the sections. Apply a gate lock to the entrance for added pool security.
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Door Alarms
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Door alarms can alert parents when children may be wandering near the family pool. Wire these alarms to the doors that lead outside the house. When the door is opened, the alarm will make a noise to notify the adults in the household. This will give them a chance to investigate and possibly catch a child who may be heading toward the pool.
Pool Covers
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Pool covers are another safety option. These covers can be set into place to cover any openings into the water. Some covers need to be manually put into place, while some more expensive pools come with automatic covers. If using a tarp pool cover, it's important that children are not allowed near the pool. Falling into the pool and being caught in the tarp can make the situation even more dangerous.
Additional Information
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The best way to keep your pool safe is to never allow occupants into the water without proper supervision. If possible, have someone on hand who knows CPR or has lifeguard training. While it may be fun to play around the pool, limit horseplay or other rough actions, because a slip and fall into the pool can cause serious injuries. Children should never be allowed in the pool without parental supervision. In the event of an accident, try to stay calm and quickly call 911 for assistance.
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References
- Photo Credit Swimming pool and pool house image by Jim Mills from Fotolia.com
