Swimming pools are popular everywhere in the world. In commercial establishments, like hotels, hospitals, and country clubs, swimming is a popular activity for both recreation and weight loss programs. Schools have also provided their students with swimming classes.
Despite this widespread interest, there has always been a great deal of misunderstanding and lack of knowledge about water safety, particularly how to enjoy using a pool safely at home on your own property. To totally enjoy your swimming experience in your inground pool, you have to be sensible when using it. Being sensible is being rational and responsible. This means you have to be informed of your pool's proper and safe use and maintenance.
Guidelines for Using an In-ground Pool
1) There Should be Adult Supervision
There should be at least one responsible adult present whenever swimmers are in the pool. Never leave children unattended. An attending adult must know how to get out of their way quickly if trouble arises and also to call for help.
Children under four years old should not use any type of pool alone because their physical condition makes them unable to save themselves from drowning if they fall into the water unsupervised.
2) Observe Safety Rules and Regulations
Swimming pools need special care due to their size, shape, depth and other equipment, such as diving boards, ladders and slides. Make sure that you clearly understand the instructions in the safety rules and regulations provided by your swimming pool supplier.
Observe all posted warnings for potential hazards such as underwater entrapment (when an object becomes lodged over a drain or suction outlet), mechanical parts, exposed electrical circuits, hot surfaces, missing or defective fencing and vacuum outlets on decks.
3) Be Responsible With Alcohol and Drugs
Alcohol and drugs are major contributors to swimming pool drownings. They slow down your reactions, impair judgment, coordination, and alertness, and cause blackouts or memory loss.
This is especially important if you have children near a pool while you are intoxicated. It takes only seconds for a child's life to be changed forever due to an intoxicated caregiver.
4) Teach Children How To Swim
Children should learn how to swim and be familiar with the basic rules for pool safety. They need plenty of time to get accustomed to water before getting into the pool or engaging in any other activity where they might fall into the pool.
Safety Operations And Maintenance For Your Inground Pools
1) Electrical Maintenance
Ensure that the power source for electrical equipment is entirely away from the water to prevent electrocution—ground all electrical wires, connections and equipment. Never attempt to repair or replace any wiring yourself. Get a licensed electrician.
2) Pool Cleaning
Daily pool cleaning is necessary to keep the water clean and safe for swimming. Shocking will remove chlorine from the water and maintain a constant level of chlorine to sanitize the pool water effectively. To avoid eye irritation or skin rashes, you should wear protective goggles and rubber gloves when handling chemicals during cleaning operations in your swimming pools.
After completing these tasks, you should wash thoroughly with soap and clean water before re-entering your home. Adding a pool blanket to your pool can dramatically cut down on the time you spend cleaning, as it will catch debris, leaves, and sticks before they reach the water. Use your pool blanket in conjunction with a roller, so everything stays neat and tidy.
3) Pool Equipment Operation And Maintenance
Always read instructions carefully before operating pumps, heaters, water treatment equipment, filters or other pool accessories. Regularly check the operation of these systems and keep proper records of your maintenance activities.
4) Lifesaving Equipment
Life preservers should always be available for swimmers in case of an accident. The availability and proper use of lifesaving equipment is the ultimate safety precaution for your pool.
5) Seek Help From Professionals
Get the service of professionals to install and maintain your swimming pool. They can analyze the water, test for leaks in the plumbing, repair, and replace equipment as needed.
The sensible way to enjoy your in-ground swimming pool is to make sure it is a safe place for everyone. By following these guidelines and tips, your family and friends will completely enjoy their leisure time in your pool.
