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School will be out soon and pool season will be in full swing. You may have already opened your pool for the season and refreshed your memory on how the pool cover works, pool chemicals, and more. However, now is also a good time for a pool safety refresher for the whole family.

Sadly, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

• Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related accidental death for children aged 1-4. 
• 87% of drowning deaths for children under 5 happen in home pools or spas. Most of those take place in pools owned by family or friends.

Fortunately, you can help prevent a tragedy by following a few simple safety tips. Get the whole family involved, and make sure your guests follow pool rules as well. It’s a simple ask.

1. Never Leave Children Unattended In or Near the Pool

Always have an adult watching children when they are in or near the pool. If you hire a teen to supervise/babysit small children during a party, make sure they know to stay off their phone. If a child goes missing, check the pool first.

2. Teach Your Children How to Swim

Enroll your kids in swim lessons at the local YMCA, Parks and Recreation Department, or arrange to have a certified lifeguard give swim lessons at your home. This will help your children have the skills to be safe in the pool with supervision. This is a smart move whether you own a pool or not.

3. Establish Pool Rules

Establish pool rules for your children and your guests. This can include some of the same rules you might see posted at a public pool or club pool. They can include:

• No running or pushing
• Dive only in a designated area (if you have a deep end)
• No glass near the pool

You might even want to post a cute sign to remind visitors of the house rules.

4. Learn How to Perform CPR on Children and Adults

Take a CPR course with your local Red Cross Chapter or community hospital. Once you’re certified, keep the certification up to date. Classes are inexpensive, and you could save a life. 

5. Install a Pool Fence, a Pool Cover, and Alarms

A pool fence (often required to secure a permit), pool cover, and alarm system can also save a life. Curious neighborhood children may be tempted by your pool. A fence can keep them out as can a pool cover and spa cover when the pool or spa is not in use. Install an alarm that goes off any time the door to the pool area is opened. You can also install motion detectors to alert you if someone or something jumps or falls into the pool while you are not poolside.

Having an inground pool can be a lot of fun and bring hours of enjoyment to your family and friends. And by keeping these tips in mind, you can help keep everyone safe all summer long.

Dream It. Build It. Live It.

Here’s wishing you a safe and happy summer! If you’re looking to upgrade your backyard, we can help. We design and install luxury outdoor living spaces our clients love.  Use the contact form to schedule an on-site consultation or call 301.720.1000. We work with homeowners in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia.