Safety first at the pool this summer
Pillar To Post Home Inspections
It’s summertime, and that means pool season is here. While it’s fun to take a refreshing dip, swim a few laps, or just watch the kids splash around, homeowners need to take extra precautions around their backyard pool. Unfortunately, drownings and pool-related injuries occur each year, affecting thousands of families. Prevention starts with some practical ideas for protecting pool users:
* Anyone using the pool should know how to swim. An experienced swimmer should always be present if anyone is still learning to swim.
* The pool should be enclosed on all sides with a fence that is a minimum of 4′ high. Gates should be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch inaccessible to small children. However, homeowners should check to see if their municipality has stricter requirements for pool enclosures.
* An adult must always be present when children are in or around the pool. For younger children, the adult should be at the poolside. It is not enough to simply look out a window or door to check on them.
* Diving should be limited only to in-ground pools with a diving board that has sufficient water depth beneath it. Always dive hands-first, and jump feet-first. Water-depth markings inside the pool let users know what to expect or where to stay away from.
* To avoid possible injury, children should be kept away from pool filters. Keep pool surrounds (decking, etc.) free of toys and other objects that could be stepped on. And walk, don’t run, around the pool.
* Pool covers should be used whenever the pool is not in use. Underwater pool alarms are now available that can be use with or without pool covers.
* Rescue equipment should be kept nearby and easily accessible. Homeowners should consider having family members learn CPR skills.
Your local Pillar To Post office wishes you and your clients a happy and safe summer.
———————————————————————————