How to Select an Outdoor Pool

On hot, steamy summer days, an outdoor pool may be the only refuge. These toys are really fun for kids and help to prepare them for swimming in larger pools when they get older. Select the outdoor pool that will be the most fun for your child, keeping safety and durability in mind.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Pool cover
• Inflation device
• Water hose

Select an Outdoor Pool

1. Go basic. The most inexpensive types are thin, lightweight plastics that can be turned over and dumped out.
2. Spend a little more money and get a pool with a drain. These are easier to use and also pretty lightweight.
3. Select a pool that is lightweight. Pools need to be moved each time they are used on a grassy area like your back or front yard. Items that sit on the grass can damage or even kill it.
4. Buy an inflatable pool. They take more time to prepare, but stow away more easily than their hard plastic counterparts.
5. Consider add ons for the outdoor pool. Sprinklers, Slip 'n Slides and water toys make great, fun-filled additions to any pool.
6. Look for a pool that has built-in seating. If your child is afraid of water, this elevated seat can help to ease their fears.
7. Be on the lookout for safety features. Some pools have padded bottoms and transparent sides so you can keep an eye on the swimmers.

Keep Your Child Safe When Using an Outdoor Pool

8. Change the water each time your child swims. Clean the pool thoroughly before and after use to prevent bacteria build-up.
9. Stay with your child when they swim. Children can drown in even a tiny amount of water.
10. Teach your child to swim. Enroll kids in swimming lessons before buying an outdoor pool.
11. Set rules. Let your child know that the pool is off limits without adult supervision and that dunking, splashing and other rough play is not allowed.
12. Follow safety instructions. Observe the maximum capacity of kids allowed to swim and never overfill the pool.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't deflate the pool, keep the water drained when not in use and buy a pool cover.
• Never allow neighborhood kids to swim in your outdoor pool without their parents' consent and supervision.
• Never leave a child unattended around standing water.

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