As the temps begin to climb into the triple digits, a refreshing dip in the pool becomes almost a necessity. Fun splash time can quickly turn tragic if proper precautions aren’t taken to keep swimmers safe. Because of COVID-19, there may be some new guidelines at public pools, but homeowners with pools have just as much responsibility as public employees when it comes to safe practices for those who go for a dunk.
Here are some essential things all responsible pool owners should do:
Carry Homeowners Insurance
“Basic homeowner’s insurance will cover you if a guest is injured in your pool. It’s important to tell the insurance company you have a swimming pool and about slides or diving boards,” Brad Parker says.
Install a Fence Around the Pool’s Perimeter
Your pool should be enclosed somehow to ensure that little ones can’t stray and get into a dangerous situation. Brad says, “The fence should be at least four feet high and have a self-closing gate.” Most cities and municipalities have this as a mandatory regulation.
Invest in a Pool Alarm
Pool alarms alert you when something or someone falls into the water. While it should not be the main safety feature you rely on, it could bring the danger to your attention sooner and be the difference between life and death.
Provide Adult Supervision
“I’d say this is by far the most important part of being a responsible pool owner. The adult must be alert and keep a constant eye on the water. Even if the adult thinks they can run inside for just a minute or two to grab something, tragedy can happen. A child drowning can take a matter of seconds. Also…if adults are having a party, it’s important to have more than one person supervising pool activity. Adults can get distracted and assume everyone else is watching when in fact nobody is watching,” Brad says.
Offer Life Jackets or Floating Devices
For small children or weaker swimmers, offer life jackets or arm floats. Communicate with those who will be swimming in your pool and learn about their swim experience. If they appear to be struggling, insist that they wear a life vest.
Teach Members of the Home to Swim and CPR
“Put your kids in swim class as soon as you can! You can’t learn to swim too soon. I remember my girls learned to swim before they were in kindergarten.” Brad says. “It’s also a good idea for family members to know CPR in case the worst happens.”
Post the Pool Rules
Homeowners shouldn’t assume that guests know how to safely act in and around a swimming pool. The rules should be posted clearly to ensure everyone can see them and understand them. Posted rules can also serve as a reminder to even the most experienced swimmers.
Summertime is a fun time in Texas. Keep these tips and guidelines in mind as you head to the pool this summer and always practice safety first to avoid tragedy!
If someone you love has been seriously injured or died in or around the water due to the negligence of someone else, we would love to hear your story and see how we can help. Fill out our contact form or call our Bedford, Texas office directly at 817.440.3888.
Have You Been Injured In A Texas Accident?
If you’ve been injured you need to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Bedford, Texas office directly at 817.440.3888 to schedule your free, no obligation consultation. We help personal injury clients throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington as well as all areas of Texas.
At Parker Law Firm, our experienced personal injury lawyers believe people matter. We are committed to our clients, not case numbers, and we believe in the power of the civil justice system. With years spent both representing accident victims and participating in the state legislative process, our founder, Brad Parker, has developed a deep understanding of the law and gained unique experience that helps him get results for his clients.
