Having a pool is a dream come true for many, but it also comes with responsibilities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, very young children ages 1-4 are at the greatest risk of drowning. In most cases, the little ones were at home and had slipped outside and into the pool without anyone noticing.
Even older children and adults can be at risk, not only for drowning, but also for slipping and falling on wet surfaces. Pool safety advocates say it’s important to build “layers of protection” around your home pool. If someone gets past a security system, a backup can help prevent a tragedy – and protect you as a homeowner. Here are some additional tips to follow:
- Install a fence at least 4 feet high with a lockable gate around the pool.
- When the pool is not in use, remove ladders and accessories, as well as any toys or floaties that a small child might try to reach for. Placing a fixed cover on the surface can provide a barrier against accidental trips and falls for very young children (while keeping your water free of debris).
- When children are in the pool, a responsible adult should always watch them. Never leave them unattended around a pool – not even for a minute.
- Inexperienced swimmers should wear a life jacket.
- Invest in pool safety equipment, such as life hooks, life rings and safety ropes. Additionally, post safety rules and be consistent in enforcing the rules with both your family members and your guests.
- Have everyone in the house take courses in first aid and CPR.
- Consider a motion-activated alarm that alerts you when someone opens the gate and enters the water when you̵7;re not outside.
- If you have very young children, install a back door alarm to alert you if they slip out unnoticed. You can also buy special wristbands for children that warn you when it gets wet.
- Limit alcohol use around the pool area, as drinking can affect balance, coordination and judgment. In fact, drinking was a factor in half of pool drowning deaths among teens and adults, according to the CDC.
Contact us today ERIE Agent to find out how to insure your home if you have a pool or have recently installed one.
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