PLAY IT SAFE

There are an average 385 pool and spa related drownings each year in the US. Over 75 percent of these are children, with over half of those under 3 years old. (CPSC)

As the weather gets warmer, Arizona gets ready for pool season. We’re fortunate to have a very long season, running from April until October, and in many cases longer. With a pool heater, swimming can be a year-long activity. It’s one of the many reasons people vacation or relocated to the Valley.

Many pool injuries and fatalities are preventable. It doesn’t take a lot to be safe, but it does take vigilance and habit. Safety, especially when children are involved, must become a way of life for pool owners. A little concern and care can make for years of enjoyable summers.

Don’t become a statistic.

Here are some simple things you can do to help:

• Adult Supervision. This may sound obvious, but it’s easy to forget. Having an adult present to supervise activity will go a long way to helping ensure safety. This should preferably be an adult who is not-swimming, so they can observe and react to anyone who might need help.
• Pool Fencing / Barriers. In many residential areas, these are required. Regulations vary, so check with your local authority. You may be required to install a fence around your pool, automatic door closers and latches above 48 inches, among other things.
• Pool Covers. There are different solutions that can help keep the pool area safe when not in use. Many covers also help keep the water warm. A good cover will prevent any access to the water, helping you keep your family safe.
• Alarms. These should be installed regardless of your local community requirements. Many are simple but very effective. At a most basic level, a pool alarm makes a sound when someone enters the pool or pool area. Some can be attached to doors and gates that have access to the pool, giving you notice that someone might be at risk.
• Ropes / Float Line. Placing a float line across your pool can help you separate the deep from the shallow end. This can help by providing a visual as well as physical block. These are not toys and should not be treated as such. Life lines are used to pull someone from the pool to safety. As with float lines, these are not toys and should not be treated as such. They should be easily accessible.
• Emergency Kits and Training. A well-stocked first aid kit is usually a good idea in the pool area. Someone with CPR training is also an excellent idea. Practicing safety drills is an important way of ensuring that everyone is actively involved in pool safety and knows what to do in the event of an emergency.
• Outdoor Telephone. A cordless phone or cell phone should be outside with pool users. This will mean that you don’t have to leave the pool area to make/take a call or call 911.
• Toys. If they’re not pool toys or games, keep them away from the pool. Also, at the end of the swimming session, put them away so they don’t become a safety hazard. Toys that contain water (ie super-soaker) should be emptied. All toys should be stored away from the pool.
• Chemicals / Equipment. All chemicals and equipment should be locked away in a safe place that cannot be easily accessed by children or pets. Read safety labels and follow the directions. Be sure you read the safety directions and information as well. Chemicals and pool equipment should never be played with or used by children.
• Sunscreen/ Shade. Keeping cool in the pool is also a good way of getting sunburn. A strong, waterproof sunscreen is essential, as is adequate shading, hats and water. Even on cooler days the suns ultraviolet rays can burn and heat exhaustion is a genuine risk.

Pools are for relaxation and fun. Safety is a necessity, but doesn’t have to take away from the enjoyment. Owning a pool or spa is a responsibility, but it is very worthwhile. Just play it safe.

For more information and for other statistics, please visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Pool Safety website at www.poolsafely.gov.

Get your pool and pool equipment checked, repaired, remodeled or refurbished in time for summer. Contact Arizona Pool & Spa Renovations today!