It is the time of year when everyone is looking forward to opening their pool. While the opening of public and neighborhood pools will probably be delayed due to the Coronavirus, opening your backyard pool or hot tub is something to look forward to.
If you have a backyard swimming pool or hot tub, make it safe for your guests and family, and keep yourself legally responsible. This means it is a good time to review some pool safety tips.
Did you know that anyone who is injured in your pool may have a legal right to file a claim against you? This is true even if that person is trespassing on your property.
The sad fact is that drowning is the second leading cause of death, after car accidents, in children 5 years old and younger.
Here are some tips for keeping your pool area safe:
- Fences and walls surrounding a pool should be at least 4-feet high
- Gates should be self-closing, self-latching
- Doors leading out to the pool area should be protected with alarms
- Use a power, lockable safety cover
Your yard should be fenced, but the immediate area around your pool should also have a fence. If you have small children, make sure that your gate has an automatic lock.
Gates, in addition to being self-locking and self-latching, should be well out of the reach of children.
Check your spa and pool covers regularly during the summer to ensure that they’re in proper working order. And consider using a surface wave or underwater alarm.
A motor-powered barrier that can be placed over the water area should be used when the pool is not in use.
Always keep your checklist at hand, and remember to check it often to ensure that everyone who is around your pool stays safe.
If you have legal questions, please consult our Online Legal Directory to find an attorney in your area.