subject: Swimming Pool Safety [print this page] A major concern of homeowners with A swimming pool swimming pools in Sydney is the safety of their pool. Whether you have a concrete, in-ground pool or an above ground pool, there is a risk associated with owning a pool. Children are especially prone to injury and death where pools are concerned because of their lack of swimming ability. Other accidents like falls due to slippery surfaces around pools also cause many accidents every year.
The risks associated with owning a swimming pool may seem too great to chance having one installed, but there are some basic safety requirements that can be followed to ensure that you have fun in your pool without risking lives.
During Installation
When installing a pool at your home, be sure to check the local requirements for safety and installation guidelines. Many areas have fencing and other safety standards that you must (and should) follow. Be sure that all pool components are installed by licensed professionals who know how to correctly and efficiently make your pool as safe as possible.
If you plan to have a diving board or pool, check with a licensed pool contractor to make sure that the depth and dimensions of your pool will support such an add on without risk to yourself and others. And be sure that ladders are sturdy, attached securely to the pool and that the handles are small enough for even toddlers to easily grasp.
Using non-slip materials on all walking surfaces around and in the pool can make your pool a much safer place to be as well. Also, be sure to install a fence around your pool that is high enough and secure enough that small children and animals cannot accidentally or purposefully breach its walls or gate. The fence should completely surround the pool to avoid giving toddlers access through an open door in the house.
For above ground swimming pools installed in Sydney, guard rails should be attached around the pool deck and rolled rims should be checked for sharp edges. All attached fixtures like ladders should be securely fastened. The access ladder should either swing out of reach of children to prevent them from entering the pool without supervision or should be removeable.
During Use
All of the safety precautions in the world can be taken during installation and it still will not make a difference unless you are committed to safety during the use of your pool. Some guidelines for pool safety are:
Teach your child to swim or use floatation devices at all times during use of the pool. Also provide extra floatation devices for visitors who may not bring their own.
Always require an adult to be present when the pool is in use, and require all pool users to get out of the water whenever the adult leaves the pool area for any reason. This rule alone can save many lives. The adult who is responsible for watching swimmers should be someone who knows how to swim and how to use the rescue devices at your pool.
Avoid many dangerous situations by following the rule to never swim alone. Even when you are in perfect health, there are many complications that can arise from swimming alone. Medical and non-medical emergencies can cause serious injury or death when occurring in a pool alone. Swimming with a partner or someone else near the pool while you swim is extremely important.
Discourage horse play and showing off near or in the pool. Also, forbid running and diving stunts to keep everyone at the pool safe. While the main objective of having a pool is to have fun, there are safe ways to do that. When people do not follow simple rules of pool safety, the consequences can be tragic.
Do not push people into the pool. This can cause serious injury and even death if someone cannot swim, hits their head from being pushed or is not wearing proper swim wear when being pushed into the pool.
First aid kits and rescue devices should be kept in close proximity to the pool for easy reach during an emergency. Also, the supervising adult should be taught how to use all such devices. Do not simply rely on the floatation devices that you buy for your children. Have proper rescue devices on hand at your pool.
Be careful with glass in the pool area and electrical appliances as both can cause significant safety concerns. Broken glass is a hazard in the pool area and should be avoided at all costs. Electrical appliances can cause shock and serious injury when mixed with water.
Do not swim when you are in any way compromised by alcohol or medications. Even if you think that you are ok to swim, it is better not to risk the consequences. The same can be said for injuries. If there is anything preventing you from being able to swim to the best of your ability, avoid going into the pool.
Following these guidelines for installing and using your pool can make a significant difference in the safety of your swimming pool. There is no price high enough to put on the safety of you and your family while using your pool. Almost all drowning deaths related to swimming pools can be avoided with these simple measures.
