Pool Safety – Protecting Yourself and Your Children

Going swimming is a popular pastime for adults and children alike. Swimming pools are a common sight in cities, neighborhoods, and even backyards. However, when enjoying a splash in the water on a hot summer afternoon, it is important to remember that, as fun as a pool may be, by its very nature it poses a host of safety hazards. Exercising proper pool safety will help you protect yourself, your children, and everyone else around you.M

General Pool Safety

Make sure everyone in the pool knows how to swim or is accompanied by someone who can. However, keep in mind that being able to swim does NOT guarantee you safety in the pool. It is possible to drown in as little as a few inches of water; never underestimate this danger.

• Never get into the water right after eating, after drinking alcohol, or when tired. These are all risk factors in water safety.
• Keep all electrical devices away from the water. This includes battery-operated devices as well as plugged-in ones.
• Never swim during a storm, particularly when there is lightning.
• Keep the area around the pool clear of safety hazards (glass bottles, small toys, slippery chemicals, sharp objects).
• If you own the pool, consider putting up a fence or barrier to keep small children from accidentally getting into the pool without your knowledge.
• Make sure all pool-related devices (cleaners, pumps, diving boards, etc.) are working properly and are properly maintained.
• Never swim alone. Don’t do it yourself, and don’t allow others to do it. The risk of drowning or getting seriously injured increases when you’re alone in the water.

Unfortunately, no amount of caution on your part can ensure that other people will be just as careful. Even the most conscientious swimmer can fall victim to the negligence of another party. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a swimming accident because of another person or company’s negligence, you deserve compensation in a court of law. For more information on your legal options, contact a Racine swimming and diving injury lawyer from Habush, Habush, & Rottier, S.C., by calling 262-554-6200 today.