How dangerous is a Pool?
For kids under the age of five a pool is the most dangerous part of a California home. It beats out the danger of having a gun in the house and car accidents as the number one accidental death for children under 5. Spas, Swimming Pools and Jacuzzis need to be made safe from children and the way to do it is a pool safety concept know as layers of protection. The State of California has made limited rules and regulations with its Swimming Pool Safety Act but truthfully it does very little to protect children in the home from the pool. The federal Government passed the The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA) however it deals mostly with drain covers and suction entrapment. Good progress but largely effective in getting the east coast caught up with California. In short, pool are incredible dangerous and it’s up to parents, grand parents and family to protect the children of the home from drownings. SD Pool Guard Can help.
Get the Pool Protected by understanding layers of protection.
Layering is the concept of not relaying on just one safety device. Don’t just bet that the sliding back door is to heavy or will stay locked. Layering means keeping the slider shut with a high lock or alarm plus and pool barrier such as a pool fence, net, or cover.
Pool Guard of San Diego covers these Cites. Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Coronado, Del Mar. El Cajon, Encinita, Escondido, Imperial Beach, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, National City, Oceanside, Poway, San Diego, San Marcos, Santee, Solana Beach, Vista, Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee and Riverside.
Use layers of protection
- Fences –Fencing is another possible layer of protection. There’s a fence that matches every swimming pool, from mesh removable pool fencing and small diamond chain link to ornamental and glass barriers. Plan on a enclosure that keeps the neighborhood kids out but don’t
Great looking Pool net in valley center
forget about your own children.
- Automatic or Manual Safety Covers –A non-penetrating cover can completely cover the pool and block access to pool water. All safety cover types should meet ASTM F1346 standard.
- Pool Safety Nets- is a great way to cover difficult free form pools and see enjoy the view of the pool. San Diego is filled with free from pool that just don’t fit a automatic pool cover.
- Locking Hot Tub Cover –The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) recommends that all portable hot tub owners have a safety cover that locks. Locking hot tub covers need to meet (ASTM International) F1346-91 safety standard. Plus dont forget that the foam weight can be lighter than you think. Lock it down
- Alarms – Consider home security features such as door and exit alarms, fence gate alarms, and pool water level sensors.
These measures are meant to keep your toddler out of the pool. The best way to start protecting them is to keep them away from the pool danger, however it’s also important to learn to swim. Swimming can be great fun, which is why you bought or build a pool at your home. What is less obvious is that kids that grow up with pools can become great swimmers for their whole lives. Teach to swim early and well. From San Macros to Alpine, & Escondido to Fallbrook, San Diego County is filled with pools. Make sure your child is safe when visit family and friends homes by having a safe swimmer.
Ways to keep the pool safe while your using it.
Swimming Safety
- Rope and Float Line
Placed across the pool, the rope and float line alerts swimmers to the separation between the deep and shallow ends of the pool and can provide a line to grab for a struggling swimmer. - Toys, and Water Floats
Never leave loose pool toy and floats in or around the pool. Put them away for security and safety. Also remember that when left in the pool they can cover us a struggling swimmer as well as become an attractive lure encouraging kids to reach into the pool. - Life Ring, Shepherd’s Crook (Hook)
These devices are used to pull someone from the pool to safety and are seen at public pools. All rescue equipment should be placed near the pool in a clearly marked and readily accessible spot, and periodically checked to make sure it’s in good condition. - First Aid Kit
A first aid kit should be kept in a safe and convenient location and periodically checked to make sure the kit is well stocked with all essentials. - Emergency Information
Post CPR, emergency (911 or other) contact information, and warning signs in a clearly visible spot near the pool. You and your family may even perform routine safety drills to remind everyone what to do and where to go in the event of an emergency. Make sure the fence isn’t to close to the water line and that there is room to conduct CPR - Telephone
A phone at poolside lets you call for help or information quickly, without leaving the pool area. - Sunscreen
Even on cooler, cloudy days, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can burn and damage skin cells. - Maintenance Supplies
All cleaners, chemicals, and maintenance supplies should be kept in a locked storage area, away from children and pets. Check labels for proper storage and expiration dates, and follow manufacturers’ guidelines.