How to Make Your Own Pool Signs

Rules and information keep people safe in the water.

Swimming pools offer backyard fun and relaxation throughout the summer months. However, that fun can turn to tragedy in an instant when safety isn't taken seriously. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, about 300 children 5 years old or younger drown in swimming pool accidents each year. Making your pool safe begins with education. Learn safe pool behaviors, and then institute rules for your own pool area. Communicate these rules and safety guidelines with prominent signage that everyone can read.

Things You'll Need

• Large sandwich boards
• Shower curtain rings
• Black or red magic markers
• Stencils
• Spray paint
• Drill

Instructions

1. Write your pool rules on the sandwich boards. These rules should include prohibitions against running, diving and horseplay. Write in large capital letters that are easily legible from a distance.

2. Punch a couple of holes in the top of each sandwich board with a drill. Make the holes large enough that a shower curtain ring will slide through the hole with no resistance.

3. Lay two boards back to back and join them together with the shower curtain rings. Make enough of these double-sided rules signs that people see them immediately upon entering the pool grounds.

4. Install the safety signs at each pool entrance. Prop them up like a wet floor sign on level ground. Don't obstruct exits or walking paths.

5. Stencil the water depth along the sides of the pool in a contrasting paint color. Space the markings at equal distances and be sure that you clearly indicate the shallow and deep areas.

Tips & Warnings

• Use leftover sandwich boards for non-safety signage, such as hours of operation or no smoking warnings. A sign that indicates that a lifeguard is not present might be a good idea for a large backyard pool that hosts parties and special events.

• If windy conditions threaten to blow away your signs, try hanging them over the fence and lashing the bottoms together. In the event of thunder and lightning, get everyone away from the pool and into shelter.

• Don't rely on signs to keep your pool safe. Ensure that everyone who frequents your backyard, especially children, knows the rules by heart and follows them to the letter.

• Never leave young children unattended in or near a pool. Of all age groups, children under five are at the greatest risk of drowning or injury in a swimming pool. Install gate and door alarms so that no one can get near the pool without alerting you.

References

• PoolSafely.gov: Simple Steps Save Lives
• United States Consumer Products Safety Commission: Safety Barrier Guidelines for Home Pools