1. Install a Fence

There should be a fence that completely surrounds the pool area. This will prevent children from entering alone. The fence should be at least 4 feet high, self-closing and self-latching, and climb-resistant.

2. Electrical Devices Should be Put Away

Electrical devices, including any outdoor entertainment equipment, should be away from not only the pool, but any wet surfaces. When using electrical devices outside, plug them into a GFCI to ensure that if anything does happen, they are protected.

3. A Strong Swimming Adult Should Supervise Children

When there are infants and toddlers in the pool, and adult should be in the water holding the child to ensure their safety. If there are older children in the pool, there should be an adult in the water paying attention to what the children are doing, and avoid being distracted by talking on the phone or drinking. Children should never be allowed to swim alone, regardless of their own swimming ability.

4. Install an Alarm on the Door Leading to Outside

There should be an alarm on any doors that lead out to the pool, and alarms on any pool gates. This practice will ensure that if there are any children trying to gain access to the pool without any supervision that someone will be aware of the action and proceed appropriately. It will also let homeowners know if anyone unknown to them is trying to gain access to the pool or to the home via the pool area.

5. Enforce Pool Rules

This is the key to preventing accidents at the pool. These rules should include no diving at the shallow end, stay away from drains, and no running on the pool deck. These are the keys to making sure that you and your loved ones have a fun time at the pool with little risk for accidents.

6. Cover the Pool When Not in Use

Covering a pool is no longer the hassle that it used to be. Many companies offer automatic pool covers that are motorized for ease of access. A covered pool looks less appealing to an unsupervised child, and may save them from injury if they do want to go into the pool.

7. Make Sure Drain Covers are Intact

Exposed drains are a hazard to all swimmers. A person could become stuck to a drain—if this is the case, take your hand and pry it between the person’s body and the drain to break the suction rather than trying to pull their body from it.

8. Keep a Stocked First Aid Kit Nearby

There are bound to be bumps and bruises when playing outside, even scraped knees on a pool deck that needs resurfacing. Having these things on hand near the pool will allow faster attention to minor injuries at the pool.

9. Diving Should be Prohibited

In general, diving should not be allowed unless there is a specific area of the pool that is designated for diving safely. The areas that are restricted from diving should be marked, as well as the water depth in various levels.

10. Life-Saving Equipment Should be Accessible

Your life-saving equipment should include a reaching pole or rescue hook, life preservers, and a rope with lifesaving rings. These should be kept in the pool area, ensuring quick access in case of an emergency.

11. Store Chemicals Away from the Pool

Follow the storage instructions designated by the chemical makers, as well as the usage instructions that are recommended by the manufacturer. They should be stored out of sight and in a place that is not accessible to children that might want to play with them.