If you have a residential pool in your backyard, there are certain steps you should take to ensure that children are as safe as possible during their time in and around the water.
- Have a licensed swimming pool professional inspect the pool before the season.
- Replace unsafe, flat drain covers with VGB compliant, antientrapment drain covers.
- Have a safety vacuum release system (SVRS) installed. “This is an emergency sensor that automatically shuts off suction if a drain is blocked," Klinefelter explained.
- Post CPR instructional signs near the pool for yourself and guests in case of an emergency.
- Have at least a four-foot tall fence or barrier around the pool.
- Ensure the water is only accessible to adults through a self-latching gate.
- Have a door alarm from the house to the pool area.
- Make sure that the pool cover is sturdy, applied correctly, and if applicable, properly latched (and always make sure the pool is inaccessible, even when covered.)
