Is Your Swimming Pool Safe?

Summer is here! The weather is warm and the sun is out. It's time to start enjoying those fun summer cool off activities.

Before diving head first into the pool, make sure your pool and surrounding area is safe for both yourself, children and animals. Swimming pool accidents occur each summer, some even fatal. You don't want to catch yourself tangled up in a poolside disaster. Prepare yourself by following these simple guidelines and making your swimming pool area safe.

1. Install a fence or gate around the swimming pool area. It can be as short or as high as you need, depending on what and who you are trying to protect. If you have small children you may want to instal the fence around 3-5 feet high. If you are trying to protect your pets, such as your dog, you will want to accommodate the height to the size of your pet. For example, a fence to keep a Chihuahua away from the pool will be much smaller than a fence to protect your Labrador from jumping over for a swim.

2. Keep the fence door closed. It seems simple enough, right? Too many accidents are caused by forgetting to close the fence door. Check after each pool day that the door is securely closed.

3. Maintain your pool's cleanliness. Follow the guidelines your pool comes equipped with and maintain it. Every pool needs TLC. If you don't have the time, or care, but love to swim in a glistening pool, hire a pool guy. They are equipped with the proper tools, chemicals and knowledge to keep your pool fresh and slime free.

4. Have life-jackets near by. This is an especially important rule if you have a deep pool or children. Having life-vests near your pool is a smart choice that could possibly save your children's life. There are plenty of outdoor boxes and storage bins that will not only store your life-vests, but will compliment your backyard decor.

5. Make your own rules. You know what's best for your pool and the restrictions your backyard has. Some backyards may have grass near their pools, where others have slippery concrete. Adjust to your surroundings and keep a safe area and regulations for your visitors.

(Video courtesy of Insurance Information Institute)

For other tips and more information on safety, contact Kipper Insurance at 760-471-2200.

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