Even with the COVID 19 virus still forcing folks to social distance and wear masks, local swimming pools are opening up. Many people have already opened their backyard pools and are enjoying the beautiful weather and the chance to breathe again.
But this is also a time to review pool safety so that you don’t end up in court. If you have a pool in your back yard, you are legally responsible for the safety of everyone who swims there; family and friends alike. So it is a good idea to make water safety your priority.
The following are suggestions from the Red Cross to help you make water safety a priority.
- Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone. Even when a lifeguard is present, don’t swim by yourself.
- If not in your back yard, swim in areas supervised by lifeguards.
- Make sure that everyone in your family knows how to swim well. Swim lessons are a must.
- Establish swimming and pool rules for your family, and make no exceptions to those rules for family or friends.
- Take extra precautions around natural bodies of water such as oceans, rivers and lakes. Cold temperatures, currents and underwater hazards present their own dangers.
- Install and use barriers around your home pool and hot tub. Use safety covers and alarms.
- If you have an above-ground pool, remove any ladders or other access to the pool when it is not in use.
- If a child is missing, check the water first. The difference between life and death is only a matter of seconds.
All of these things will ensure that you and yours have a safe summer around the water. And, taking these precautions may keep you legally safe, as well.
If you have legal questions, please consult our Online Legal Directory to find an attorney in your area.