In our recent blog, we discussed some of the most common pool injuries that can result from various risks and hazards – hazards which are certainly present at residential pools. Whether you have a pool at a home you rent or own, it is important to remember that you play a large role in ensuring that you, your family, and any visitors and guests are kept safe by reducing risks. When left unaddressed, certain pool hazards can lead to serious injuries or even death.
At Sico Hoelscher Harris LLP, our Corpus Christi personal injury lawyers have helped many victims who were harmed as a result of property owners who failed to take reasonable measures in addressing potential hazards that later injured others. We want to help all local residents keep themselves and their loved ones safe by providing some important information about injury proofing a home pool.
Here are a few important things you can do:
- Gates or barriers – One of the most important things you can do to reduce risks of preventable injuries, including drownings, is to create an adequate barrier around your home. Pool gates or fences can ensure that a wandering child does not stray near a pool, where they can fall in if not supervised. In addition to a gate, pool owners may also choose to install sturdy pool covers designed to support an adult’s weight.
- Maintain pool equipment – Maintaining equipment that operates your pool, such as the heater, filter, and other devices is crucially important. Aside from ensuring equipment is located in a safe place behind fencing or walls, you should also ensure they are regularly maintained. Exposed wiring on a pool heater, for example, could pose the risk of electrical injuries. Maintaining other pool equipment, including toys and safety aids, can also help prevent injuries caused by old or aging products. You should also ensure that your pool and spa have drain gates and covers that comply with safety standards to avoid drain accidents that can lead to entrapment and drowning.
- Child-proofing – Child-proofing your home pool most importantly involves a gate or fence, which can prevent kids from gaining access to the pool area when unattended. Additionally, if a child swims in your pool, they should always be monitored. You can also make sure any toys are safe for use by children, that no running or rough play is allowed near the pool or slippery surfaces, that diving boards are in working order, and that a pool and surrounding area is properly lit when used at night. Create a list of important rules, follow them, and ensure your family and guests know them as well.
- Learn CPR – If you have a pool, learning CPR is a wise idea. When an emergency takes place, it can take time before responders arrive to administer aid. By knowing CPR, you can assist a drowning victim, be it a child or an adult, without losing critical time waiting for help. CPR certification courses, which can be regularly renewed, are offered at many community centers, hospitals, and other organizations. Knowing CPR can save a life.
- Pool chemicals – Make sure any chemicals being used in a pool are correct, used in the proper amount, and used correctly. Get professional help if needed. Injuries and illnesses involving swimming pool chemicals and other harmful substances are more common than you think.
Even when all the proper precautions are taken, accidents and injuries can still result, especially when others, including guests, property owners, or even product manufacturers are negligent. Our legal team hopes everyone enjoys their time in the water as safely as possible, and we are always available to help should an accident and injury occur. To discuss a potential claim with a member of our team, contact Sico Hoelscher Harris LLP today.