Pool and spa construction experts offer advice on some tips for swimming pool safety.

pool safety barrier fence

Safety barriers

These are physical structures installed to prevent access to the pool:

  • Install a fence of at least 4 feet in height. The fence should not have any footholds to facilitate climbing over.

  • The fence should have a self-latching gate

  • Install a pool cover that is strong enough to hold human weight without breaking

  • Install a pool alarm that goes off when someone gets into the water

  • Secure the door from the house to the pool with a lock above the reach of children

Pinnacle USA is here to help with any added safety features you may need.

Supervision

The ‘buddy’ system should be strongly enforced. No children should be allowed to go near the pool unsupervised. Even experienced adults should have someone keeping an eye on them. Experienced swimmers drown from diving accidents.  Inexperienced swimmers should wear a US Coast Guard approved life jacket.

Swimming knowledge

All members of the family should be taught swimming skills by a qualified swimming instructor. The Red Cross provides age-appropriate water orientation.

Emergency equipment

It is important to have water rescue equipment. These include:

  • Life hooks

  • Rescue tubes

  • Pool safety lines

  • Rescue cans

  • Spine boards

  • Life vests.

  • First responder emergency kit

It is crucial that everyone in the family learns how to use this equipment. In addition post emergency rescue numbers where they are clearly visible and a telephone next to it.

Diving board use

Naples pool construction professionals say it is inadvisable to have a diving board in a pool where there are children. The board will be a strong fatal attraction. Diving accidents involving adults happen when a person dives from the board jumping too far and hitting the head on the pool’s floor. The diving board should be regularly checked for rust and cracks.

pool chemicals

Pool chemicals

Swimming pool cleaning chemicals are hazardous. Chlorine, which is the most common, used chemical, releases strong toxic fumes that can corrode the lungs. These chemicals can also burn the skin.

Follow proper instructions when administering these chemicals to the pool. This is to avoid skin, eye and nose irritation from too much chemical concentration.