Getting a family pool can be an exciting time, especially if you’ve never had one before. You may not be used to just how big of a responsibility pool safety is when you have children; it’s important to make sure the pool and pool area are both safe and secure to protect your kids from harm while enjoying their new pool. Here are five ways you can keep your loved ones safe in the pool area.
Supervision
Nothing replaces supervision. Your children should be supervised by at least one adult at all times because things can go wrong in the blink of an eye. Drowning is often silent, which is why young children especially shouldn’t be left alone in the pool (or in any body of water, even a bath). If your kids are really young, an adult should be in the pool with them so that they can be reached faster if something happens.
Fencing
Check with your state government about their fencing guidelines, and make sure you follow them exactly. This way, you avoid a hefty fine and are doing your part to avoid disaster. You can’t just put up any fencing; children are notorious climbers and can often unlock gates and doors without you realising, so your pool fence has to comply with regulations to ensure the risk of your children being able to enter the pool area unattended is minimised.
Invest in a pool cover
Pool covers not only help keep your pool clean by stopping leaves, twigs and other debris from falling in, they also give you an extra layer of protection when it comes to your children. It also takes away some of the visual temptation, so your kids are less likely to try and get in on their own.
Learn first aid (and CPR)
If the unthinkable does happen despite taking safety measures, it can make a huge difference in the outcome when you know how to perform first aid and CPR while waiting for the ambulance to arrive. It’s a good idea for any parent to take a first aid course (even if you don’t own a pool) so that you’re prepared for a number of emergency situations.
Establish pool rules
Ground rules are another great idea for pool owners with children, to reinforce how important it is to be sensible and safe in the pool area. Clearly explain the rules to your kids, and ensure there are consequences for not following them as well so that the seriousness of pool safety is understood. Examples of common pool rules include things like no diving, no pushing, and no running in the pool area.
These five things are so simple to do and make a big difference in how safe your children are when you have a backyard pool. Kids are precious, and they rely on us to protect them. As long as you understand your responsibilities as a pool owner, you and your children will have many years of (safe) fun and make wonderful memories.
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