The Right Pool Equipment Can Save Lives

Drowning is the number one cause of accidental death among children age one to four in California, among other states. California’s law requires swimming pools built after 1998 or which are being remodeled to have at least one approved safety barrier. In Florida, where drowning is also the number one cause of accidental death among small children, the law requires that a person have a barrier, approved pool covers, pool alarm on any door or window with direct access to the pool, or a self-latching closure higher than fifty-four inches on any door with direct access to the pool. No matter what state you live in, though, it is important to choose the right pool equipment to keep your friends and family safe.

Safety Fences. If you have children, friends with children, or relatives with children, a pool fence is a must. These can dramatically reduce the risk of an accidental drowning or near-drowning when installed and maintained properly. Make sure that your fence encloses the entire pool and that it is high enough to prevent your child from climbing over it. There should be a strong, durable, and weather-resistant self-closing latch that is at least fifty-four inches from the ground to prevent your child from simply opening the gate and negating the safety benefits of your fence. Fences with removable sections are great for maintenance but make sure that the fence is always properly reinstalled and that you do not take the fence down when children are present.

Covers. Another must. Many people who have fences also opt to have an addition layer of protection in case their child climbs over the fence or if someone leaves the gate open inadvertently. A net is a great choice because it can be taken off quickly when you want to use the pool and reinstalled just as quickly when you are done. Nets offer durable, strong protection that will keep your child from falling into the water and can be used on virtually any type of pool, even those with non-standard shapes. They can also quickly be placed on other bodies of water, such as garden ponds.

SVRS (Safety Vacuum Release System). We often think of pool accidents as happening to small children who cannot swim, and while this is sadly the case much of the time, it is also possible for children and even adults to become trapped by suction from a drain in the pool. While horrific to even think about, it has been known to disembowel and even kill children. Drains exert about 300 pounds of pressure per square inch, making them extremely dangerous. A safety vacuum release system provides a rapid vacuum release if something obstructs a drain. So, if your child’s body is being suctioned into the drain, the SVRS will quickly release him. An SVRS will not interfere with your pumps, filters, or heaters and will add yet another layer or protection.

You. You are the most important piece of safety equipment for your child. You supervise him when he’s enjoying the pool. You take all tempting toys out of the water so he won’t reach for them and fall in. You have a tall, secure fence installed, and you always remember to close the gate so it latches shut. You teach your child about pool safety and make sure that every other adult who watches your child is aware of your rules and how to keep your child safe. Fences, nets, covers, vacuum release systems, and other equipment are essential, but they never take the place of your supervision.

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