Swimming Pool Safety 1: Fencing
As part 2 of our pool safety series, I want to inform you of the importance of installing a fence around your pool. While it doesn’t replace proper adult supervision at all times, a fence will assist in keeping your children away from the pool. Ideally, your fence should be at least four feet tall, if not five. In addition, the fence should be unclimbable by any small children. For the gate on the fence, the handle should be out of reach for small children with a securely latching knob release. It goes without saying but the fence should extend completely around the pool. If a wall of your home makes up part of the fence, make sure that the door leading out to the pool is equipped with an alarm that will sound if a child exits the home.
As a personal injury lawyer in Seattle, I just want to remind you again that regardless of whether you have a fence or not, you should still supervise your children at all times.
Swimming Pool Safety Step 2: Pool & Spa Covers
As part three of our series on pool safety for children, I would like to highlight the importance of pool and spa covers. By utilizing a cover over the pool, it sends a message that the pool is not open for swimming at this time. The cover should meet safety standards and should be strong enough to hold a child should they fall on top of the cover. Regardless, you will need to teach your child that the cover is not a toy and they should stay away from it.
If you have a hot tub, always keep it covered when its not in use. In addition, equip the cover with locks that you can secure it with. Even if you use your pool daily, you can purchase an automatic cover that will slide across in a matter of just a minute or two. If you own an above-ground pool, remove the ladder when it’s not in use. Children love to climb ladders and could easily fall into the pool if it’s in place. As a Seattle personal injury lawyer, I would like to remind you again that nothing replaces the need for full-time adult supervision when your children play in or around a swimming pool.
By Seattle Personal Injury Lawyer
