Pool and Spa Safety Tips for a Safer Summer

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, and what could be more fun than taking a dip in your pool or spa? However, it's important to keep safety in mind when enjoying these water features.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year thousands of people are hospitalized due to injuries related to swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the risks associated with pools and spas and provide you with 15 safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe this summer!

The Risks Associated with Swimming Pools and Spas

One of the most common risks associated with swimming pools and spas is drowning. According to the CDC, about eleven people die from drowning every day in the United States. For children ages 1–14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.

Other risks associated with pools and spas include slips and falls, electrocution, and chemical injuries. Additionally, pools with too much chlorine or too much algae can cause health issues such as skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, and even nausea and vomiting. Handling pool chemicals yourself can also be risky. 

Now that we've discussed some of the risks associated with pools and spas, let's move on to safety tips!

Fifteen Safety Tips for a Safer Summer

Here are fifteen vital tips to help you stay safe while enjoying your pool or spa this summer:

1. Never swim alone. Make sure there is always someone else present in case of an emergency.
2. Don't drink alcohol before or during swimming. Alcohol can impair your judgment and make it more difficult to swim safely.
3. Make sure the area around the pool is well-lit so you can see where you're walking.
4. Wear slip-resistant shoes to help prevent slips and falls.
5. Be careful of electrical cords and outlets near the pool. Make sure they are well away from the water to avoid electrocution.
6. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding chemicals to the pool or spa. Never add too much chlorine or other chemicals, as this can be harmful to your health.
7. Regularly check the pH level of the water to make sure it is balanced. You can use a test kit from your local hardware store or pool supply store.
8. Inspect the equipment regularly for any damage or defects that could potentially cause an injury.
9. Keep the area around the pool clean and free of debris that could cause someone to trip and fall.
10. Inspect the condition of your pool or spa, including the decking and stairs, to ensure there are no loose tiles or other tripping hazards.
11. Know how to properly use pool and spa equipment, such as ladders, slides, and diving boards. When using this type of equipment, always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
12. Make sure everyone in your family knows how to swim and knows the basic rules of pool safety.
13. Always supervise children when they are near or in a pool or spa. It is also important to teach children how to swim and provide them with floatation devices when they are in the water.
14. Have a fence around your pool or spa. The fence should be at least four feet tall and have a self-closing, self-latching gate. This will help prevent unauthorized access to the pool or spa area.
15. Have a plan in place in case of an emergency. This plan should include having a phone nearby, knowing how to turn off the power to the pool or spa, and having a life preserver or flotation device readily available.

We hope you found these tips helpful! Remember, summer is a time for fun but it's also important to be safe. Follow these tips and have a great summer!

Keeping Your Pool Clean and Safe

In addition to following the safety tips listed above, there are also some steps you can take to help keep your pool clean and safe. First, it is important to regularly clean your pool or spa, including vacuuming the bottom and scrubbing the walls. Additionally, you should skimmer the surface of the water regularly to remove debris such as leaves and insects.

It is also important to test the pH levels and chlorine levels in your pool or spa regularly. You can purchase test strips at your local pool supply store to help with this process. Additionally, you should shock your pool or spa monthly to kill any bacteria that may be present.

Hiring a Professional

If caring for your pool, deck, and mechanisms seems overwhelming, don't fret! Professional pool and spa maintenance companies can do their part to keep your pool and spa clean and safe.

Hiring a professional can easily know several items off that list of tips and save you a lot of effort and peace of mind. Professional pool companies will keep your water clean and clear, without overdoing it with harmful chemicals. They'll make sure your pool equipment and the deck are in good shape and alert you to any potential issues.

Takeaways

In summary, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind when enjoying pools and spas. These include supervising children at all times, maintaining the pH and chlorine levels, having a fence around the perimeter, and knowing how to properly use equipment such as ladders and slides. 

If you are ready to protect your family and friends by keeping your pool clean and safe, regular maintenance by a pro is the way to go. And when you use a TrustDALE certified professional, you're always protected by Dale's trademark $10,000 Make-It-Right Guarantee. So start looking for a trusted pool and spa professional in your area today!