Swimming Pool Safety, Child Safety Issues

Most cities require permanent fences around pools at homes where children six years and younger are living. It is suggested that fences be put up around pools where young children visit.

An existing fence should very stable, not wobbly or falling over. If a fence is unstable, you can hire a contractor to stabilize it for you.

Pool fences should be maintained regularly. Continually check that the springs on the door work properly, and that the gate latches securely. Keep the latches and hinges oiled.

NEVER PROP GATES OPEN. This creates an invitation to children to go into the pool area. Keep keys to the gate lock out of the children's reach. Always double check to see that the gate has latched securely behind you when entering or leaving the pool area.

Secure/Lock Steps leading to above ground pool areas.

Do not store toys or other items inside the fenced area, that could attract a child to get the toys.

Install Alarms on doors leading from the house to the pool, and doors from the outside of the pool area entering into the pool area. Install Pool Alarms around pool, in the event, something falls into the water

Drowning Is s a leading cause of accidental death for children under five. Most of these drownings occur in swimming pools after the child slips out of a guardian's sight.

To lower a child's risks, adults must place multiple barriers around their pools. Only one silent barrier is never enough.

Child drowning can be avoided. We hope this information will help ignite ideas on what you can do to help make your pool a safer place. If you have a suggestion to add to this page please e-mail: