Easy and Low Cost Pool Safety Equipment

December 5, 2008 by admin 

A swimming pool is supposed to be a place of enjoyment. Yet, accidents occur near swimming pools around the world every year. To get more of the first and lower the odds of the second, some simple-to-install pool safety equipment is a must.

Pool safety covers may sound like the last line of defense, but it’s really the first. Many people won’t expend the money and effort to build a fence around the pool, but everyone can afford to get a pool cover. They’re also ultra easy to use, even if they’re deployed daily, so there’s no good reason not to have one.

A pool cover’s primary job can be to keep debris out of the water, or lower the loss of chlorine, or even to heat the pool. But a pool safety cover can perform all those tasks and one more: keeping children, pets and anyone else who is vulnerable from getting in the water at the wrong time.

Children and pets always need to be supervised. But even the most conscientious people can’t be everywhere at once. Pool safety covers can prevent serious accidents. By design, they’re sturdy and won’t puncture if someone accidentally falls on it.

Swimming pool fences are another excellent option, if and when they are an option. Not every house is designed to allow a fence to be constructed. Lack of space, legal restrictions, and other considerations may get in the way. But most provide that choice.

Chain link fencing is the most popular option, because it is the least expensive. But wrought iron is also very popular. Both come in dozens of styles. If the fence is wrought iron, the lower section should be covered with mesh. Few wrought iron fences are narrow enough to prevent small dogs from squeezing through or under. Even some children can manage it.

Wood fences are sometimes used and they can look great. But keeping them treated to prevent decay is a challenge. Modern composites that resemble wood are a great alternative.

Obviously, any fence that is built needs to be high enough to prevent little ones from wandering into the pool area. But a lock on the gate is always a good idea, too. Kids and pets both can be remarkably clever when they want to get somewhere. The gate should be self closing from any position and self-latching, and most municipalities regulations require it.

Not all fences go around the pool area, though. Some go around the pool itself. That’s often the case with above ground pools that don’t always have a permanent location. A fence around the rim itself can be a great safety feature.

It’s also not a bad idea to investigate having a perimeter alarm, so when anyone does cross at the wrong time, you can be alerted.

Apart from these large scale barriers, there are several smaller items that can increase the safety of your pool. Life vests for smaller children are an obvious example. Floatation devices are useful for everyone, especially older adults. But even depth markers can alert. It can be difficult to judge water depth.

Keep your pool safe. It’s easy and it doesn’t have to cost a lot. It’s one of the best investments you can make for your peace of mind.

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