5 Tips to Kid-Proof Your Backyard Swimming Pool

Swimming pools are appropriate for kids and adults of all ages—as long as the proper safety measures are in place. Here’s how to kid-proof your backyard pool for your peace of mind.

Install a Fence

A physical barrier surrounding your pool is the best way to keep curious kids out of the water. A child-proof pool fence must:

• Be at least four feet fall
• Be non-climbable, with no handholds or footholds
• Feature a lockable latch that is above a young child’s reach
• Have a self-closing, self-latching gate

Install a Pool Alarm System

Adding a pool alarm can provide a second layer of protection. You can install alarms on windows, doors, or gates that lead to the pool area, which sound anytime the contact is interrupted.

Wearable alarms are another option. These set off an in-house alarm when they are fully submerged, alerting you immediately if your child (or pet!) has fallen into the swimming pool.

Set Pool Safety Rules

One of the best ways to avoid accidental drowning is to discuss water safety with your children. Establish and strictly enforce rules when playing in and around the pool. These may include:

• No running or jumping on the slippery pool deck
• No diving in the shallow end
• No riding wheeled toys near the pool
• No swimming without adult supervision
• No swimming without a life jacket or floaties (for young or inexperienced swimmers)

Make sure your children understand why these rules are important and stress that safety always comes first.

Maintain a Safe Pool Area

While drowning is a valid concern for parents, other accidents and injuries can also occur around a swimming pool. Reduce the chance of any incidents with these tips:

• Install non-slip pool decking and inspect the area for hazards daily
• Don’t allow glass cups or bottles on the pool deck or in the water
• Store all pool chemicals in a locked, child-proof cabinet
• Ditch the diving board
• Keep first aid kits, rescue buoys, and a long pole nearby
• Install a pool cover in the winter or anytime the pool is not in use for long periods

Give Children Swimming Lessons & Teach Supervisors CPR

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends swimming lessons to reduce drowning risk among children ages 1 to 4. Parent-child swim classes are an excellent way to introduce good water safety habits and build swim-readiness skills.

As an added precaution, it’s wise for anyone providing adult supervision by the pool to know CPR. Take a class, earn your certification, and relax, knowing you can intervene quickly and confidently if your child needs help.

Millennium Pool Service can boost your peace of mind by installing a pool fence and safety cover. Our pool maintenance packages also improve swimming pool safety by keeping the water clean and healthy. To learn more about our services, or to schedule a visit, please contact us at 703.939.5062 in Virginia or 301.591.3750 in Maryland.