Swimming pools spas can create an endless supply of happy memories and good times. However, swimming pools spas can also be a deadly temptation for children and pets. Drowning deaths in home swimming pools spas is the fifth leading cause of children under five. Responsible swimming pools spas owners must make sure that safety precautions are made to ensure that their pool is a source of joy and not a painful reminder of a tragic event. The following are some basic safety precautions that will ensure that your pool or spa is as safe as possible and fun.
Many swimming pools spas accidents happen when someone goes inside to use the bathroom, answer the phone, etc. It only takes a few minutes for something bad to happen so no matter the age of the child, never leave them alone even "for a minute." The best way to ensure the safety of your swimming pools spas is to have your required pool barrier meet the State of California Pools Safety Code. The pool barrier needs to surround the pool area completely, measure a minimum 5' high from the outside of the yard, and be non climbable. All wrought iron gates and fences must not let a 4" diameter ball pass through between the vertical pickets to ensure that a small child won't squeeze through.
You should have a clearly defined set of rules for your swimming pools spas that everyone understands and follows. Rules should include things like no pool entrance without parent's supervision. This will help make sure that everyone is working together for a safe pool. If there is anyone in your pool with questionable swimming skills, they should have a coast guard approved flotation device. "Floaties", blow-up tubes and wings are no substitute for an approved floatation device. Any toys left in or around the swimming pools spas create a dangerous temptation for young children wishing to explore. Get in the habit of removing all of the toys from the pool every time you are done using it as this will help keep curious tots from wandering into danger.
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