Things You'll Need:
- Pool drain cover
- Pool covers
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Step 1
Wading pools should be emptied after each use to ensure the safety of young children. Otherwise, purchase a cover or heavy tarp that will completely cover the pool and that can be tied securely with a nylon rope that will go around the pool once or twice or that is secured by pins and anchors.
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Step 2
Any time your young children are outside playing in the pool, take the time to stay outside by the pool with them. This is a great time to catch some sun, relax with a magazine or visit with another child's parent if that child is playing or swimming with your children.
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Step 3
Try and put the swimming or wading pool in an enclosed area of your yard or patio. Secure gates and fences with a padlock or lock and chain to keep the area secured. Do not let older children have the key because they could unintentionally forget to re-lock the gate or other enclosed area.
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Step 4
If you have a full-size pool in your yard that was purchased from a store and put up by you, make sure any ladders, movable decks and other accessories are removed once everyone has finished swimming for the day.
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Step 5
If your pool was professionally built and is an in-ground pool, make sure and purchase a locking cover for it as part of the installation package, or as a separate piece if the company does not have covers.
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Step 6
Many apartment complexes have gated pools, but some do not have locking latches or latches placed high enough to ensure younger children cannot access the pool. Since most apartment complex pools do not have lifeguards on duty, you may want to talk to the complex manager, contractor or owner about resolving this issue. There are also locks with key codes that could be used to secure a gate and the code made available only to the adults.
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Step 7
Swimming pool drains also pose a serious safety hazard. Children have drowned as a result of getting hands and feet stuck in pool drains. The suction and size of the drains make it impossible for the children to extricate themselves. You can purchase drain covers that will still allow the pool pumps to function but will ensure children will not get stuck.
