Your backyard oasis can be the most used space on your property, and rightfully so! That being said, your pool comes with a unique set of responsibilities. The last thing anyone wants when enjoying their pool is for someone to get hurt. There are laws and regulations to be sure to follow and best practices that will make your swimming experience more enjoyable!
Pool Covers: Covers are a great way to maintain a safe environment, even when the pool is not in use. Covers not only keep children from inadvertently falling into the pool, but also keep unwanted leaves, debris and animals out of the pool. Furthermore, covers help to save energy and conserve water by helping to keep in water, heat and chemicals that could otherwise evaporate into the atmosphere.
Fence or Barrier: A fence gives owners a sense of relief that a child, grandchild, young neighbor or pet are prevented from wandering into the pool. There are plenty of options for fences that meet code requirements without disrupting the aesthetics of your yard. It is always best to consult your local laws to determine if a fence is required and what standards the fence must meet.
Pool Alarm: There are several types of alarms that signal when the pool area is being disturbed, such as when the back door or the gate is opened, or when someone has entered the water. Water alarms are usually able to tell the difference between a larger creature versus a toy or rain, thereby possibly reducing the nuisance of an alarm constantly going off. Test the alarms from time to time to ensure they are in working order.
Lighting: Light all safety areas such as pool steps, entrances and exits.
Other suggestions:
Ensure your swimming pool and/or hot tub complies with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (VGBA), which requires features to prevent entrapment. Entrapment can occur when a pool/spa suction outlet (drain) creates higher than allowable suction forces and can hold a bather/swimmer down at the suction outlet/drain cover, trapping them below the surface of the water. Make sure that the suction outlet (drain) covers are in good shape, not cracked/broken, and properly secured in place.
Keep a float or ring nearby- handy for emergency use.
Ensure your ladders and handrails are properly secured.
Routinely check over your pool equipment to make sure everything is operable.
With children around, designate someone to be in charge of watching and keeping a steady on the children.
Maintain proper water chemistry to preserve the condition of your pool and its equipment as well as to avoid irritation of swimmer’s skin and eyes.
Make sure all who use the pool can swim and feel comfortable using your pool and practice protocol that would prepare for an accident.
We want you to love your Colley’s Oasis while also maintaining an atmosphere of safety. Luckily, both can be done!