Having a pool in Arizona provides year-round fun for families of all ages. Of course, pool ownership also comes with a big responsibility to keep everyone safe while they have fun. And there’s no better time to talk about pool safety tips for parents than the month of May, the official National Water Safety Month in the US.
We’ve collected what the experts say are the top things parents should know about pool safety. Read, put into place and make your pool experience even more enjoyable knowing that you’re prepared.
BE ALERT AND WATCHFUL WHEN CHILDREN ARE IN THE POOL
It seems like obvious advice, but experts agree that constant awareness is absolutely key to water safety. Something dangerous can happen in the blink of an eye. Children are pretty curious, and if they start fiddling with pool drains, pipes and any other open pool fixtures, it could lead to an accident. Anytime a child is anywhere near a pool, parents and other adults need to be watchful and close by in case of emergencies. Get to know your pool and its different features so you can quickly remedy the situation.
It’s also important to handle pool safety by committee. All neighbors and friends should be aware of the pool safety system you have in place at your home, and they should be able to handle a situation should one arise. By that same token, if children ever do go missing, look for them in the pool first. Another helpful tip? Bring your phone out near the pool so that you are prepared in case anything happens.
Small steps like these, with an established process, will save valuable seconds should disaster strike.
PRACTICE BASIC WATER SAFETY SKILLS
Many swimming accidents each year are caused in part by improper form. If you’re going to be out in the water with your children, everyone needs to know how to swim confidently. Make sure you can tread water without aid and swim underwater. It’s something that’s often overlooked but can be critical in an emergency.
LEARN CPR
A good skill to have regardless, CPR is even more crucial to know when you have a pool. Obtaining a CPR certification is relatively simple, and it’s this kind of training that can save lives. Be sure to also keep your CPR skills updated regularly as well. You never know when you’ll need them.
HAVE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT FOR YOUR POOL
Is your pool area protected by a safety fence? Whether you’re building a new pool in Arizona or evaluating the safety features of your existing one, this is an important one to consider. Installing a four-foot-tall fence around the pool area as well as a self-closing and self-locking gate will keep young children from accidentally wandering in (and asking neighbors to do the same would be ideal). If you have a spa, it would also be worthwhile to have a lockable safety cover installed on it.
You may even consider having one or two pool “toys” nearby in case of emergency. An accessible pool noodle or small floating toy can be a quick lifeline in the event a child accidentally falls in.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
We’ve been building pools in Arizona since 1966, and we’ve watched thousands of families grow up enjoying their pool. We care very deeply about keeping families safe around the pool, so if you have questions like which fence you should install, what safety cover you should buy or other safety features available, we’re available with recommendations.
