Safety Comes First When the Pool is Open

Stay alert! Recognize the hazards to keep pools safe and fun.

A refreshing pool on a hot day can be so inviting. Children of all ages enjoy splashing in the cool waters in private home-based pools, swim clubs, health clubs, country clubs and public pools. While pools can provide enjoyment, they can also be a source of danger. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 400 children die each year because of pool and spa drownings. To make sure everyone leaves the pool happy and healthy; pool owners and operators should take steps to prevent injury and drowning.

The number one rule is never to leave a child unattended or unsupervised around a pool.

Television and movies often show drowning as a dramatic event with victims thrashing and calling for help or lifeguards springing into action for the save however, drownings often are silent and difficult to see. They can occur in shallow water or even after a person has left the pool.

Signs to look for to identify a potential drowning victim in the water may include:

• Head low in water with mouth at water level
• Head tilted back with mouth open
• Glassy or empty eyes
• Failure to kick or move legs while in a vertical position in the water
• Trying to swim with no headway

In addition to knowing the signs of drowning, water clarity is also an important component of proper life safety in the pool. A lifeguard, parent or counselor cannot see someone in need of help as easily if the water is cloudy and murky. Having lots of people in the pool also can affect water clarity, emphasizing the need for proper chemical balance and additional lifesaving staff.

Remember, drowning doesn’t always happen in the deep end. Shallow water blackout results when an individual holds his or her breath for too long. Younger swimmers can drown in much shallower water. A person can drown in as little as 2-3 inches of water in less than 30 seconds. Fortunately, you can take steps to substantially reduce the likelihood of an accidental drowning in your home pool.

Consider these additional safety measures in and around your pool:

Fencing

Surround the pool with four-sided isolation fencing (at least 4-5 feet high) that separates the pool area from the house and yard with a self-closing and latching gate out of the reach of children. According to the American Red Cross, a four-sided isolation fence reduces a child’s risk of drowning by more than 80%.

Barrier

Install barriers and door alarms/locks out of the reach of children on all doors and windows with access to the pool area.

Pool alarm

Install an underwater pool alarm that sounds when someone enters the pool. Make sure the sound is distinctive and has speakers so you can hear the alarm from all areas of the house.

Pool cover

Use lockable or powered pool covers when the pool is not in use and ensure they are in good working order. Also ensure the covers have no rips or tears that a child could step through. Be cautious if using a floating pool cover. Because this type often is opaque, a child might not recognize the danger and step through it.

Equipment

Make sure all lifesaving equipment – rings, poles, floats – are easily reachable and available. Seconds are critical when responding to a potential drowning.

Security

If you have an above ground pool, secure, lock and remove any item such as steps, furniture or toys when the pool is not being actively supervised by an adult.

Drain cover

Install anti-entrapment drain covers and safety release systems to protect against drain entrapment.

Pet doors

Although convenient for your pet, pet doors should not be accessible to the pool area because young children can crawl through them.

Storage

Portable pools should be fenced or covered when not in use. If possible, they should be emptied and stored. Remove all ladders or points of entry from around the pool.

Caregivers should be prepared in the event of an emergency by having rescue equipment nearby and knowing how to perform CPR. With proper supervision and awareness, pool owners and operators can prevent a tragedy from occurring and help everyone to enjoy their time at the pool!

Read more specifics about safety barrier guidelines from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

This loss control information is advisory only. The author assumes no responsibility for management or control of loss control activities. Not all exposures are identified in this article. Contact your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice and policy service.