Summer is firmly here, and that means more fun outdoor activities like barbecues, hiking, and taking a dip in the pool. Although they are a great way to take advantage of the warm summer months, swimming pools can be a danger if proper safety measures are not taken. Here at DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers, we have seen how poor pool-safety practices have led to many premises liability issues and resulted in legal action.
To keep you safe out by the pool, we have compiled a list of do’s and don’ts to ensure that everyone has a fun and safe time taking a dip this summer.
Pool Safety Do’s
- Teach Children to Swim- It is recommended that children age 4 and up take swimming lessons. If you have a pool at home or have access to a pool, it is a good idea to familiarize your child with water, and when he or she turns 4, it’s time to be enrolled in swim classes. Using flotation devices as an added security measure is always a good idea for children with questionable swimming abilities. Always hold on to your young child who cannot swim when you are in the water.
- Enforce Pool Safety Rules- All households with pools should practice safety measures that can help prevent injury or death in and around the pool. Standard rules of no running outside the pool, children always being supervised, and strict pool hours are recommended. Holding fast to safety rules is a fantastic way to ensure visitors behave and is one of the best ways to prevent injuries.
- Have a Quality Pool Gate with a Lock- To prevent young children from entering a pool unsupervised, pool owners should have pool barriers with a child-proof locked gate. This is not just a good idea – it is state law. Gates that are easy to open may not keep children from entering the pool unsupervised, and that is a recipe for disaster.
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Pool Safety Don’ts
- Never Leave Children in the Pool Unattended- Children, no matter their age, should have responsible adult supervision the entire time they are by a pool. While it may be okay to elect a designated safety monitor, it is ideal for every child to have an individual adult to watch closely while they are in the pool. With young or new swimmers, adults should remain in the water, and never have the child outside an arm’s length away.
- Do Not Leave Pool Equipment and Toys Around the Pool Deck- Pool-cleaning supplies and toys can be hazardous for individuals walking around the pool. Children and adults alike are at risk of tripping over these hazards and getting injured. Keep your supplies and equipment stored away when not in use, and when you are using them, be sure to keep these items far from the pool’s edge.
- Avoid Overindulging in Alcohol While Swimming- Drinking and swimming can be a recipe for disaster. Swimming, though a fun activity, comes with inherent dangers. Drinking alcohol impairs not only an individual’s judgment, but motor skills as well. Overindulging is considered one of the most significant risk factors for adults drowning.
- Never Be Unprepared for an Emergency- Pools are inherently dangerous, and it is important to be prepared for the worst-case scenario to prevent tragedy. Taking courses in CPR and emergency response training is a good idea for any individual who owns a pool. It is recommended that pool owners create a safety checklist in order to inspect features of the pool routinely and keep it as safe as possible.
DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers, Can Help You After a Pool Accident
If you or a loved one has suffered injury as the result of a pool accident, you deserve a skilled Boston personal injury lawyer who will fight to get you justice. The legal team at DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers, is dedicated to getting clients the compensation they deserve after tragedy and hardship.
Call our Boston office at (617) 870-0907 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our Burlington pool injury lawyers handle your case while you focus on moving forward with your life.
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