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Swimming Pool Safety

posted by TrueNorth Risk Management on Wednesday, June 8, 2016

If you own a pool, relaxing in the backyard during the summer months is a fun and enjoyable way to beat the summer heat.

Though splashing and diving is carefree fun, owning a backyard pool comes with serious responsibilities, too. From poolside party safety tips to supervision, there are many general safety precautions you can take to make sure your friends and family enjoy your pool safely. 

Swimming Safety Precautions

General Recommendations

• When hosting a pool party at home, assign several adults to the job of "lifeguard" for all swimmers. These individuals should not drink alcohol and should stay on constant alert for swimmers in distress. 
• Install a fence with self-locking and closing gates to completely isolate your pool from your house and the areas around it. The fence should be at least 5 feet high so that people who are not supposed to be swimming do not have access without your permission and supervision. 
• Do not leave your children or guests alone in the event that they would need assistance. As the homeowner, you are ultimately liable for the safety of others in the pool on your property. 
• Remove toys from the pool when they are not in use. 
• Do not swim alone in case you suffer a health problem such as a muscle cramp or heart attack and consequently cannot swim to the side safely without assistance. 
• Teach pool rules to your children and guests and post them in a highly visible location. 
• Lock and cover spas when they are not in use. 
• Swimming pool equipment can be dangerous. Do not stick your fingers in grates and filters. 
• Do not swim for at least 30 minutes if you hear thunder or see lightening. When you see of hear thunder and lightening again, wait an additional 30 minutes before going into the pool. 

Safety Training

• For homeowners with a pool, it is wise to take lifeguard, first aid and CPR courses in case anyone needs assistance while on your property. Once old enough, your children should receive this same training. 
• Enroll your children in swimming classes led by a qualified swim instructor. This will minimize the chance that they will have trouble at a home pool. 

Rescue Contacts

• Keep rescue equipment and a telephone to call 911 close to the pool area.
• Place emergency numbers and CPR instructions close to the pool.

TrueNorth Protects Your Home and Family

As always, TrueNorth is happy to assist you by providing comprehensive insurance and financial solutions for both home and business.  Visit www.iTrueNorth.com or call (319) 739-1277 for an insurance quote to help safeguard the things that matter most to you.