Splashing and laughter — such happy summer sounds! Life doesn’t get much better than pool time with the kids in this beautiful place we live.
But as much fun as playing in the water can be, pools also require vigilance and caution — especially where young children are concerned. Here are some words of advice to help keep everyone safe as we enjoy the season:
- Always supervise children in or near the water and enroll them in swimming lessons as young as 6 months old to help them get comfortable in the water. Teach them to always swim with a buddy, and have floaties or life vests available for those who are not strong swimmers.
- Refrain from running or horseplay around or in the pool to avoid slips, trips and falls. Swimming is fun, but wiping out is not.
- Don’t dive in shallow water or water where you can’t see the bottom because striking the bottom or striking unseen debris could cause major injury. Stay in designated areas; they are established for your protection.
- Excessive alcohol and swimming don’t mix! Always stay attentive. Use plastic instead of glass beverage containers because of the possibility of breakage and difficulty seeing glass shards in the water.
- Watch the weather. Summer storms pop up, and if you can hear thunder or see lightning, get out of the water because it can conduct electricity — and you don’t want to be the tallest object in the area.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM LIABILITY
Anyone injured on your property, including your pool or waterway, can hold you liable for their medical expenses and sue you for negligence — so make sure you’re covered.
- Confirm with your insurance provider that your home insurance includes pool liability protection. Liability insurance will cover medical expenses, legal fees and damages awarded in a lawsuit, even when you are found not to be negligent. This will give you more peace of mind.
- Post a list of safety rules and strictly enforce them if you are the owner of the pool or water area.
- Be sure your water access is limited and complies with local laws, which may require fencing and self-locking gates.
- Consult with a knowledgeable insurance agent to understand your options for the best available protection. Carefully review your policy’s terms and conditions.