Swimming and lounging by the pool are common past times here in Texas, especially during the intense heat of the summer. However, it should be noted that pool safety isn’t something to dismiss. Although pools are a lot of fun, swimming pools can be dangerous if certain precautions aren’t taken.

Did you know, according to the National Safety Council, over 3,700 people in the United States drowned in 2016? Death by drowning is especially prevalent amongst young children, babies and toddlers. For children ages 1 to 4, drowning was the leading cause of death in 2016. In order to ensure you keep your family safe around the pool as the weather warms up, you should follow these pool safety tips.

1. Install a fence around your pool
   If you have young children, pool fences are great investments to ensure the safety of your kids. While it is nearly impossible to always have an eye on your young ones, having a pool fence will give you the security that they can’t fall in and be at risk for drowning.
2. Enforce pool rules for your kids
   As pools can be dangerous, you should have a list of rules that you enforce for your children. Important inclusions should be:

• No running around or near the pool
• No diving into shallow water
• No swimming without an adult present
• No pushing anyone into the pool
• No dunking or holding anyone under the water

3. Don’t install a diving board
   Diving boards are high risk. Even for someone who knows how to swim diving boards can be dangerous. To avoid injuries, your best bet is to avoid a diving board altogether. If you do have one, ensure that there are certain safety rules in using it.
4. Invest in a pool alarm system
   Pool alarm systems alert you when the gate around the pool is opened, and some alert you when there is motion in the pool. Having one will give you the extra peace of mind when you have little ones at home.
5. Keep an emergency kit handy
   Always keep an emergency kit handy for any accidents that may occur in or around the pool. To take another step towards safety, consider learning CPR.
6. Create a non-slip environment around your pool
   Many pool injuries occur as a result of someone slipping around the pool. Pool decks can be slippery, which is why one should always be careful and never run or jump on them. Invest in a deck that is slip resistant and always check that there are no items that could cause someone to trip around the pool.
7. Have your child take swimming lessons at a young age
   A good way to ensure your kids stay safe around the pool is by teaching them to swim at a young age. While most children beginning proper swimming lessons around age 4, even babies less than one year old are taking classes with their parents and certified trainers to learn techniques to avoid drowning and it is saving lives.

Follow these tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe around the pool this year as the weather warms up. Keep your pool and surrounding area clean and updated to lower risk of pool accidents and injuries. If you are looking for a trusted and experienced pool builder in Trophy Club, here at Mid City Custom Pools, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.