Summer is underway. If you have a pool, you may have begun to think about when you will reopen it, but before you jump right in consider safeguarding your pool first. Below are 6 ways to safeguard your pool, so that you can enjoy it safely: 

Build a Pool Fence/Cover:

A pool fence will be the perfect safety addition to your pool.  It encloses the pool area so little ones, animals, or even adults cannot access it without unlocking it. This provides an extra sense of protection for parents or visitors who want to make sure their kids are always safe. If you have a deck around your pool, consider adding a door with a lock. Also, no matter the pool type, if the pool isn’t in use for an extended period of time, use a pool cover.  The pool fence should follow these requirements:

• Open outward away from the pool
• Self-closing
• Self-latching
• 5 feet or higher

Add Lights:

Make sure the area around the pool and in the pool itself is well lit. It is important that you can visibly see underneath the water in the dark and around the pool in case anything were to occur.

Alarm/ Camera System:

Consider implementing an alarm and camera system that has motion sensors to alert you when someone is entering or leaving the pool area. The alarm will also help monitor the area when you are not home or near the area. If you are not sure what pool security system will work best, do some research and check out this article by Swim University to help point you in the right direction.

Learn CPR:

It is extremely important to learn CPR in general, but having a pool makes it imperative. Ensuring that you have attended and become certified through a CPR class will help ease your mind and others in the event of an emergency.

Stow Away Equipment/Chemicals:

There is certain equipment and chemicals needed to keep your pool in tip-top shape, but when you are done using these tools, it is important to have a safe place to store them away from the pool area. It can be a shed, garage, or just a designated area out of sight from the pool. This helps keep everyone safe. Always remember to check the chemical balance in the pool and to use any equipment while everyone is out of the water because even the best swimmers can get tangled up.  If you have an above-ground pool remove the steps or ladder when the pool is not in use.

Establish Pool Rules:

Having a set of rules is a good way to make sure people know what is and is not allowed. These rules should be easy to comprehend for all ages. Some examples of pool rules are:

• No diving in the shallow end
• Must wear a life vest if you are underage or not an experienced swimmer
• No swimming without an adult present
• No running on deck 

A pool is the perfect way to cool off on a hot sunny day, but just remember to keep safety a priority.