The area around your swimming pool is meant to be enjoyed. Whether it is a family space or an adult space for friends, it is important to make sure your swimming pool is safe. No matter what, accidents can always happen, so follow these steps for continued safety and peace of mind around your swimming pool.

Although safety covers may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, looking like a big trampoline, they are an asset in the winter when it comes to pool safety. It can hold some weight, like the weight of a small child in case of any accidents. Safety covers are available for both inground and above ground pools.

When purchasing a pool, you should opt to hire a general contractor to install a safety fence around it upon installation. Many laws are starting to require fencing around swimming pools. A safety fence will be at least 48-inches high, featuring a self-closing, self-latching, child-resistant gate. This not only ensures child safety, but may actually aid in pool care, keeping unwanted debris out of your pool.

Pool alarms vary in shape, size, and function. Four standard options swimming pool owners often choose from are perimeter alarms, pressure sensitive alarms, gate alarms, and wearable alarms. Let’s take a closer look at each of the options:

• Perimeter Alarms are also known as invisible fences. They are set up around the pool, creating a laser field so when a child or animal enters the fence an alarm will sound. It also works to scare off other small animals from getting in your swimming pool.
• Pressure Sensitive Alarms work to sense pressure waves, like if someone were to fall in the pool. The base of the alarm will sit on the edge of your pool while a long tube with a sensor is in the water. If someone or something over 18-pounds goes into the water, the sensor will pick up the wave and sound an alarm.
• Gate Alarms are attached to the entry gate to your pool area. Once switched on, they create a magnetic field. If the magnetic field is penetrated by the gate opening, an alarm will sound. The alarms can also multipurpose as home alarms for doors as well.
• Wearable Alarms are used on children, and only work with adult supervision. The child wears the alarm around their wrist, sounding only if the child is in water. This works well in and around crowded pools and beaches.

A few things to invest in and keep on hand around your pool area include:

• A Life Saver with a Rope is often seen around professional swimming establishments, but they may come in handy. The circular floating device is tossed in while the victim tries to grab on, then you pull them to safety with the rope.
• A Shepherd’s Hook is a metal loop to attach to a pole, like the one you would use when vacuuming. In the case of a victim drowning, you use the end of the hook to wrap around their garments and pull them to safety. This may be one of the least expensive safety options.

The best safety precaution you can take is to ensure that there is loads of adult supervision in and around the pool while people are swimming.

Don’t forget to practice pool safety when swimming in your pool this summer. Always keep an eye on young children, and practice the buddy system.