5 Safety Measures To Consider Before Opening Your Pool

dog jumping into a pool chasing a tennis ball

5 Safety Measures To Consider Before Opening Your Pool

Warmer weather has finally arrived in Connecticut. After a long winter, most people are ready to open their windows, eat al fresco and go for a swim. Before you open your pool and start your summer fun, consider these 5 safety measures to ensure your summer is accident free.


Teach Children Proper Pool Etiquette

Any time there are children around deep waters, it’s important to teach them about the importance of safety. Since it’s so very easy to slip and fall into a pool if running or playing near one and since it only takes moments for drowning incidents to turn fatal, education is critical.


Take the time to teach kids proper etiquette around the pool and establish ground rules for anyone accessing the area of your pool where dangers are present. Rules including adult supervision and no running should top the list.


Keep Gates and Pools Up to Code

Most towns and states have laws for pools located in people’s backyards. In Connecticut both public and private pools are required to be surrounded by a barrier that is at least 4 feet tall and that does not have vertical gaps in the fencing larger than 1.75 inches. The gates must also have functioning locks and self-latching devices. Be sure to check with your local zoning laws and ask your homeowner’s insurance agent to ensure your pool is up to code and you’re protected.


Be Cautious of Pets

In addition to keeping human safety in mind when opening your pool, it’s important to think about our four-legged friends. Just like humans, it’s easy for pets to drown in pools if they don’t know how to swim. This is especially true for pets that are older or have mobility issues and will not be able to paddle to safety. Be sure to show dogs the way around the pool as well as a way out so they are prepared in case of an accident.


Even if you don’t have pets, a neighbors pet, wild animals passing through your yard or a runaway animal can mistakenly end up in the water without a gate and proper precautions in place.


Take Swim Lessons

Another great way to reduce the chances of drowning or other accidents around the pool is to sign your family members up for swimming lessons. Not only will these classes provide confidence to be a strong swimmer, they will also offer important safety skills.


Learn CPR and First Aid

One of the best skills to have ready around a pool is CPR. Taking courses on how to perform this life saving skill can be the important seconds between life and death until emergency responders arrive. Check with your local Red Cross for course availability.


For more information on homeowners insurance in Connecticut, call: 1-866-479-3327




 

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