Florida summertime means it’s time to enjoy nice weather, pool parties, and relaxation. If you find yourself relaxing by the pool or throwing a party with friends, it’s important to understand pool safety. Pool owners and guests should be aware, and keep in mind, these safety tips before kicking off the Florida summer.
Install Pool Barriers
Blocking access to the pool when it’s not in use can prevent any wandering children from entering your premises and falling in the pool. It is important to block access to pools, spas, and other water features in the yard using approved pool barriers. The American Red Cross suggests completely surrounding pools with four-sided isolation fencing, and have a self-closing and self-latching gate feature out of the reach of a child. A four-sided fence can reduce a child’s risk of drowning by 83% compared to only three-sided fencing. Above ground pools can be secured by removing ladders, steps, and all nearby items children may use to climb. You could also invest in a lockable pool cover.
Have Pool Rules
Having and enforcing pool rules can prevent unintentional accidents. Let all family members and guests know your pool rules ahead of time, you can also put up a sign to help keep these rules in mind. Some pool rules the American Red Cross established are:
- Do not enter head first unless there is a safe diving area.
- Stay away from drains and other openings which cause suction.
- Swim with a buddy.
- Only swim when supervised by a water watcher.
- No running around the pool.
- Swim sober.
- Supervise others while sober and without distractions, such as reading or using a cell phone.
Appoint a Water Watcher
In a matter of seconds tragedy in the pool can occur when children are left unattended near or in the pool. Appoint a member of the family or responsible guest to be the water watcher to keep an eye on all activities around the pool without distraction. Children especially should always be supervised around the pool by a responsible adult. Even when kids are not in the water, they still should be supervised as other risks such as a slip or fall could occur around the pool.
Know What to Do in an Emergency
Pool owners should learn CPR and make sure all residents and caretakers in the home know what to do in case of a pool emergency. To help a drowning person, the American Red Cross gives five checkpoints to follow:
- Recognize the signs of someone in trouble and shout for help.
- Rescue and remove the person from the water (without putting yourself in danger).
- Ask someone to call emergency medical services (EMS) by dialing 9-1-1. If alone, give 2 minutes of care, then call EMS.
- Begin rescue breathing and CPR.
- Use an AED if available and transfer care to advanced life support.
Be Covered in the Case of an Accident
We hope you consider these pool safety tips to keep you, your family, and guests safe during this Florida summer. We understand accidents happen, and should an incident occur in or around your pool, we want to remind our policyholders your homeowner’s policy provides personal and medical liability coverage. Standard limits on liability coverage may be increased with the purchase of any of our premium packages.
Reach out to your agent or give us a call at 877-229-2244 to learn more. Easily get a quote on our website here!
