Introduction
Having a pool and yard can be a wonderful thing. However, they can also present safety hazards if not properly maintained and childproofed. As a homeowner, it is my responsibility to make my pool and yard as safe as possible for my family and any guests. Here are some of my tips for hazard abatement in my pool and yard area.
Secure Your Pool Area
- Install a 4-sided pool fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate. The fence should completely surround the pool and be at least 4 feet high. Make sure the gate opens outward, away from the pool.
- Consider installing a pool alarm that goes off if anyone enters the pool area. There are alarms that can detect motion in the water as well as alarms that float on the water and detect pressure.
- Remove all chairs, tables, floaties, toys, and anything else that can be used to climb over the pool fence when the pool is not in use. Climbing aids can provide children access to the pool.
- Check fences and gates regularly for proper function and signs of deterioration. Repair or replace damaged fencing immediately.
Eliminate Pool Area Hazards
- Install non-slip surfaces on the pool deck and stairs. This prevents dangerous slips and falls.
- Clean up any algae or debris around the pool promptly. Slippery algae can be a hazard.
- Provide secure storage for pool chemicals where children cannot access them. Improperly stored pool chemicals can be poisonous.
- Place rescue equipment such as life rings or reaching poles around the pool area. This allows for quick assistance if needed.
- If you have a pool cover, ensure it is completely removed before using the pool. Entrapment under the cover could be deadly.
Yard Hazards to Address
- Check for choke hazards like small toys left out in the yard and secure or remove them. Children can choke on small objects in the grass.
- Inspect your yard for holes, sharp sticks, uneven ground, and other tripping hazards. Fill holes, dispose of sticks, and level ground as needed.
- Keep yard chemicals like fertilizer and insecticides locked away when not in use. Children should not be exposed.
- Cut back low-hanging tree branches that could poke eyes or allow climbing access to dangerous areas like rooftops.
- Check for poisonous plants and remove or isolate them from child access. Teach children not to put plants, berries, etc. from the yard in their mouths.
Supervise Children Near Water
- Actively supervise children whenever they are in the pool area, even if they know how to swim. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly.
- Do not allow children to use inflatable swimming aids like water wings or floating rings without supervision. They can deflate and are not substitutes for life jackets.
- Enroll children in swimming lessons starting at a young age. Familiarize them with water safety rules.
- Insist that children walk, not run, around the pool area. Running and roughhousing can lead to slips and falls.
Conclusion
Keeping my pool and yard hazard-free requires ongoing vigilance. But it is well worth the effort to prevent injuries and keep my family safe. Following pool codes, active supervision, securing hazards, and teaching water safety are the keys to enjoying our pool and yard responsibly. Maintaining safe areas takes work, but the benefits far outweigh the effort.
