SAHBA Home Hints
June 15, 2008
Pool Guidelines for a Safer Summer
It is a natural progression for Southern Arizonans to flock to backyard pools when triple-digit temperatures hit. Now that school is out and summer barbeques are underway, the pool is the cool place to be. But during summertime fun, homeowners with backyard pools may want to take the time to double check their pool's safety.
Fencing: Isolate the swimming pool with an enclosure. SAHBA member Protect-A-Child Pool Fence Systems features panels covered in tightly woven mesh that cannot be climbed over or slipped through by small children. These fences can be removable, permanent or semi-permanent and meet code requirements.
“They're super safe, and you can take them up or down for parties,” said Chris Bradford, Co-owner of Protect-A-Child Pool Fence Systems.
“The fiberglass poles do not have the tendency to break like cheaper, aluminum counterparts. And the mesh panels allow viability in the pool area,” said Bradford.
Safety Covers: Install an impenetrable casing that completely covers the pool, spa or hot tub to prevent access to the water when there is no supervision.
Alarms: Get an alarm for doors or fences used for pool, spa, or hot tub access. Alarms can detect unwanted entrances to these areas.
Rope and Float Lines: Place a rope or float line across the pool to let swimmers know where the deep end separates from the shallow end.
Rescue Equipment: Invest in equipment such as a life ring or shepherd's hook, or check the condition of existing safety items. Keep these life-saving instruments near the pool in an easily accessible spot.
Post Emergency Information: CPR information and warning signs can be posted near pool, spa and hot tub areas.
Outside Telephone: Keep a cordless telephone nearby while in the pool. This can enable swimmers to contact medical assistance quickly in case of an emergency. Having one outside prevents adults from leaving children unattended when the telephone rings.
“These are great ways to help a homeowner ensure their pool area remain safe all year round. However, it is important to remember these tools never replace adult supervision,” said Bradford.
Details: Protect-A-Child Pool Fence Systems at (520) 991-2260 or www.protectachild.com.
SAHBA represents about 750 member businesses and 40,000 jobs serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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