| Are you planning to install a pool in your backyard | | | | If someone does happen to gain access to the |
| for some summertime fun? If so, there are a | | | | pool area, and falls or jumps into the water, this |
| few important steps you must consider first. | | | | small alarm will alert you to the presence. It |
| After all, having a body of water in your | | | | simply attaches to the pool sides, and must be |
| backyard is potentially dangerous, especially for | | | | disabled before you enter the water. A pool alarm |
| small children. As the owner of a swimming pool, it | | | | can give you valuable seconds to get the child out |
| is your job to keep it as safe as possible. | | | | of the pool without serious harm. Pool alarms are |
| In many cities, fences of a certain height or type | | | | especially important in neighborhoods with lots of |
| must surround all swimming pools. You may need | | | | young children around, as they might not know |
| to built a special pool enclosure or fence in your | | | | better than to jump into an unattended pool. |
| entire property. Some cities even place | | | | If you do have children, or there are kids in the |
| restrictions on the type of gate or lock used, to | | | | neighborhood, instruct them on pool usage before |
| ensure that no children can get in accidentally. Find | | | | the pool is installed. Require the kids to ask your |
| out the rules in your area before you begin pool | | | | permission before entering the water so that you |
| installation; otherwise, you might commit to the | | | | can be sure someone is outside to supervise |
| pool only to later realize that you must upgrade | | | | them. |
| your property to prevent your swimming pool | | | | Even if there aren't kids using the pool routinely, |
| from becoming a hazard. | | | | keep flotation devices on hand for family |
| Responsible pool owners can, and should, go | | | | members and guests. If weak swimmers want to |
| beyond city rules in making their swimming pool | | | | enjoy your pool, these will come in handy. If your |
| as safe as possible. This begins with the gate. | | | | pool is particularly large or deep, keep lifeguarding |
| Keep it locked at all time, and install a gate alarm, | | | | floats on hand, just in case. Even strong |
| which will sound if the gate is opened. | | | | swimmers who spend a long time in your pool can |
| The pool itself must also be protected. While this | | | | develop cramps and need assistance. |
| is important if you have kids living at home, it is | | | | No matter what type of pool you are installing, |
| still necessary if the pool is meant to be enjoyed | | | | above-ground or in-ground, diving or play, you |
| by adults only. Neighborhood children will quickly | | | | must consider the safety of your family, guests, |
| learn how to access your pool if you don't take | | | | and neighbors. Making your pool less accessible to |
| steps to keep them out. Cover the pool with a | | | | uninvited guests, particularly children, and making |
| hard cover during the offseason, while will protect | | | | sure no one can use the pool without you |
| the pool from falling children, not to mention | | | | knowing about it will go a long ways towards |
| leaves, bugs, and other debris. A pool alarm is | | | | preventing pool accidents. |
| another essential safety feature. | | | | |