|
|
 |
 |
|
|
|
We heard you! We are now online with a newsletter that provides helpful tips for buying, maintaining, and maximizing the enjoyment of your hot tub. Thank you to all our readers who help make Poolsearch the most accurate and read swimming pool comparison in the industry.
To join our FREE online community,
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Pool Safety Considerations for Families |
|
|
|
|
If you have young children in or about your home and are thinking about installing a swimming pool, give some thought to the safety issues that will need to be addressed. Swimming is a terrific sport, and one that kids especially love, but as a pool owner you will be responsible for the safely and well being of anyone using your pool.
One thing to be aware of is supervising children around the pool. When indoors, keep the doors and windows locked |
|
|
so little ones can’t get outdoors and into the water. Never leave a child unattended outdoors while you go inside for a drink of water or to answer the phone. Keep toddlers with you at all times to prevent them from falling into the pool. Don’t allow kids to run, tussle, throw things, or otherwise behave in a way that could result in injuries or damage to themselves or to the pool.
You will probably want to invest in a pool cover. Get one that is child-resistant and family-protective. There are several models and designs to choose from, like net, vinyl, and mesh, to name a few styles. Some may take awhile to secure or remove, however, and there are those that are safer for children than others. Look for the models that are most likely to keep your children from falling into the pool or strangling on ropes or other attaching devices.
Store chlorine and other swimming pool chemicals in a safe place. Read the package directions, and place them in a locked cabinet, preferably in the garage or shed, where small prying fingers can’t get to them. Carefully follow directions for cleaning the pool to avoid over-chlorinating the water, since chemicals can be harsh to children’s sensitive eyes and skin.
|
|
Keep safety devices on hand, including life preservers, nets (for toys to keep kids from diving deep for them), and a safety pole to pull someone to the side if necessary. Instruct every family member how to use the equipment, and never let anyone swim alone. Secure the safety equipment in a location near the pool where it can be readily found. Make sure it is kept in usable condition.
Teach children how to play in the pool. Don’t let them swim near vents where hair or |
|
|
|
|
clothing can get caught and perhaps cause them to drown.Forbid their diving into a shallow pool where head or bone injuries can occur. Have them play correctly to avoid getting hurt or harming others by dunking, pushing, or pulling someone under the water surface and holding him or her there, which could lead to accidental drowning.
Insist that swimmers shower after each session in the pool. Their bathing suits should be washed as well, and they should wear a clean one each time, if possible, to prevent bacterial buildup or chlorine accumulation.
Post a few main rules near the pool so everyone knows what they are, including guests. Keep sunscreen on hand to prevent sunburns. Check the deck or area surrounding the pool for wasp nests or other potentially unfriendly critters, like fire ants or even snakes, depending on which area of the country you live in. Clean your pool regularly to kill germs. Make your pool a chief attraction and primary enjoyment instead of a source of trouble. |
|
|
|
 |
|
