Uncovering swimming pools and spas is something that everyone in Mississippi is looking forward to. The days are getting longer, the temperatures are warming up and the smell of spring is in the air. Plus, with the kids home from school for the remainder of the year due to coronavirus, it’s no surprise why parents are especially eager to open their pools sooner than later. 

Before you move in that direction, however, now is a great time to assess how safe your swimming pool really is. If you plan on giving your kids more freedom this year, you have to know that your backyard pool is as safe as it can be. Below are a few ways to ensure your swimming pool is secure. 

Block Access to the Pool 

Your pool should be secure with a swimming pool cover and/or fence. This protects your children as well as other kids in the neighborhood. Pool covers come in many types and styles, but for the best protection, we recommend one that is heavy and straps into place. This is the best way to prevent kids from drowning if they accidentally fall into the pool.

A fence may be a requirement by your community, so you probably already have one installed. Make sure that your fence is in good condition and features a self-closing or self-latching gate so that it can’t be left open accidentally. 

Install Alarms 

If you’re worried that your child will try to access the pool even with a fence, consider installing a pool alarm system. If someone jumps or falls in, the alarm will sound. The two main types of alarms to choose from are wave alarms and light alarms. 

Wave alarms sound off when they detect waves in the pool. Light alarms shoot light beams around the perimeter of the pool and go off when the beam is broken. You can also install an alarm on the fence to alert you if someone opens it. 

Keep the Area around the Pool Safe 

Another thing to do is maintain a safe place around the perimeter of the swimming pool. Here are some of the best suggestions: 

• Repair cracks in the concrete or wood, as they can lead to trips and falls. 
• Have a place to store pool toys so they are not left around the pool’s perimeter.
• Use only plastic cups and plates when dining around the pool – no glass.
• Protect all outlets and electrical equipment.
• Keep a phone nearby in case of emergencies.
• Post your swimming pool rules where everyone can see them.
• Trim trees hanging over the pool. 

Maintain Pool Equipment 

Pool equipment can be just as dangerous as the water itself. Make sure that all pool equipment is properly maintained and used as directed. For example, never use the pool when the vacuum is operating and be mindful of spa pumps and drains that can be strong enough to pull a young child under water. Also, keep cleaning chemicals stored away. 

By giving your backyard pool some attention, you can ensure that it’s as safe as possible for your family and others who come to visit. To purchase a pool cover or discuss your other pool needs, contact Paradise Pools today. 

The last Saturday in April is National Pool Opening Day. Not everyone is able to open up their pools this early, but here in Mississippi, it’s the perfect time to throw off the cover and dive into the swimming season! Now that National Pool Opening Day is behind us, we can focus on the next big event: National Water Safety Month.

The purpose of National Water Safety Month is to promote awareness for pool safety. As we inch closer to the kids getting out of school, now is the perfect time to practice these five water safety tips.

1. Learn to Swim

We recently wrote a blog post about the importance of knowing how to swim – for both kids and adults. Before summer begins, brush up on your family’s swimming skills. You can spend time getting the kids comfortable in the water again, or you may benefit from enrolling in swim lessons. Learning to swim is a skill that can be used for the rest of your lives!

2. Don’t Rely on Inflatables

If you find that your child can’t swim well or hasn’t yet developed the skills to swim on their own, don’t depend on inflatables to keep them safe. While inflatables like “floaties” can help your child swim, they are not a substitute. Your child still needs constant supervision.

3. Discuss Limits and Expectations

Older kids that are comfortable in the water need to know their limits and expectations. Otherwise, they may find themselves in potentially dangerous situations that they can’t manage. For instance, if your child wants to go to the public pool, discuss how far out they can swim, if they can use the slides/diving board, how often to check in, etc.

4. Don’t Dive into Shallow Water

Unless you are trained to dive into a pool, it’s best to avoid it. You don’t know what’s down there – and you won’t until it’s too late. You can, however, enjoy diving in the deep end of a pool or off a diving board that is being supervised by a lifeguard.

5. Never Swim Alone

Even if you want to swim a few laps, it’s best to have someone with you at all times. Whether it’s a friend, a neighbor or a friendly face at the health club, it’s important to have someone else around other than yourself. If something happens and you can’t swim, this individual can help you.

Swimming is a fun, healthy activity that all ages can enjoy. But do realize that the water can be dangerous if it’s not taken seriously. In honor of National Water Safety Month, discuss these five tips with your family before the summer season starts.