Ensuring your Families Safety beyond Insurance Part 3: Pool Safety - Capstone Brokerage

By: Mary Thompson, Capstone Brokerage President, June 16, 2016

Summer has arrived in Las Vegas, with temperatures already reaching over 100, many families are headed to the pools to cool down. If you are lucky enough to have a pool in your backyard there is an added responsibility not only to maintain the pool, as well as safety must haves, and best practices to implement. Sadly, over 200 young children will drown in a backyard pool this year. Just like last month’s keeping your family safe topic:Fire Safety and Escape Planning . I have also created a swimming pool safety check list. A pool can be a fun form of summer entertainment, with an added need to keep children, friends, and family safe.

Safety tips:

• Perhaps the MOST important pool safety measure all homes should have is secure fencing. A locked entrance around the pool and deck area to prevent access when adequate supervision is not available. Install self-closing and self-latching gates in the proper locations.

• Individuals should NEVER swim alone. Even the most advanced swimmer can hit their head causing a very unsafe situation.

• Not only should a pool have a secure fence, it is also smart to install an audible alarm that sounds if someone enters the pool or even falls in.

• All home pools should have a life saving kit easily accessible near the pool, such as life preservers, a rope, and life-saving ring or rescue hook.

• After using the pool make sure all toys, floats, balls, etc. have been taken out. Anything left floating in a pool can become a hazard.

• Make sure to never use glass near a pool.

Pool maintenance safety:

Another area of safety to consider is pools maintenance. Having a pool checked before the season and once a month is smart to be sure everything is in working order.

• Chemicals can be VERY dangerous and should always be stored properly away from the pool area. Be sure to read the storage instructions recommended by the chemical manufacturer.

• Electrical devices used outdoors should be kept away from the pool. There is a risk of electrical shock anytime there is water and anything with a plug.

• Make sure all entertainment systems are not close to the pool and away from where water gathers.

• Check the pool decking for hazards.

• Check stair handrails to be sure they are secure and the structure safe for someone leaning or grabbing onto the rails.

• For above ground pools check the metal support. The support is what keeps the pools structural integrity; an above ground pool poses a risk for ruptures.

• Lastly, have pool anti-entrapment drain covers inspected, to ensure they are not broken or missing.

Don’t have a pool in your backyard? That is ok, many neighborhoods have community centers that allow homeowners and renters access to a community pool.

When visiting a community pool this summer remember these added safety tips:

• Always watch your children and loved ones. Crowded pools can come with added safety concerns. You must always be alert!

• Be sure to shower before and after swimming in a public pool.

• Check the pool for exits and depth.

• Check to make sure the drain covers are in place. Without them there is a serious safety risk.

• Look around the pool to see where the safety devices are in the event of a drowning or near downing. You want to know where life saving devices are.

Pool safety and your homeowner’s insurance policy:

As many homeowners with pools in their yard know the added luxury of a pool often means added cost for your homeowners insurance. Last year, in June I discussed what to expect from your homeowners insurance policy when a home with a pool is being insured. For more information on your specific coverage on your homeowners policy be sure to contact your insurance company or broker. Coverage should be evaluated annually to make sure you have adequate protection.