The pool is one of the most favorite recreational spots for both children and adults. From the ideal place to get in a good workout to a perfect location for kids to play, pools are utilized year-round for good reason.
However, while pools may be a fun place to play, they can also be dangerous; nearly 4,000 people die from drowning each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you plan to be spending any time in the pool this year, here are some safety tips that may be essential in preventing an accident.
Stay Sober
Having one-too-many to drink at a pool party can be a tempting thing to do. But when drinking water, too much alcohol can be an extremely dangerous thing. Intoxication around the pool increases the chance of a slip and fall case, liability of which could be either the injured person or the homeowner. Especially when children are present, staying sober is the safest thing that you can do for yourself and others around you.
Don’t Swim Alone
Even if you are an active swimmer, swimming alone can be dangerous – you never know when an accident or medical emergency could occur. The swim with a buddy rule is even more important for young children and swimmers who aren’t advanced. Talk to your kids about never swimming alone, and the importance of swimming with adult supervision.
Invest in Swim Lessons
If anyone in your house doesn’t know the basics of swimming—or at least treading water—it’s time for a family swim lesson. Swim lessons are often offered by cities, local organizations, and private gyms and are an essential component of safety near the water.
Learn CPR
In the event that there ever is a water-related emergency, knowing CPR can save the victim’s life. Getting a CPR certification is a relatively inexpensive and quick process, and is worthwhile, especially if you have children at home.
Keep Your Property Secure
Finally, if you have a pool on your property, make sure you secure it by putting up a fence or covering the pool when not in use. Under the doctrine of attractive nuisance, property owners can be held liable for injuries caused to children on their assets if the damage was an result of a hazard—such as a pool—that was not made inaccessible.
In the event that you or your child is hurt on another person’s property who failed to keep the property safe, you may have a cause of action. To learn more about premises liability laws in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, contact the attorney at Cordisco & Saile LLC, LLC today by calling 215-642-2335.
