A backyard pool is a great place to while away the lazy, hazy days of summer. Unfortunately, it can also be a source of many potential dangers. The good news is that you can enjoy your outdoor oasis without the worry over hidden perils lurking. We have important safety tips that will ensure your summer of swimming is as safe as it is fun.

Security Devices

Certain security devices are a must with any backyard pool, to ensure a child or pet does not enter the water unsupervised. A fence at least four-feet tall should be installed around the perimeter of the swimming pool. This is true even if the pool owner does not have children, to prevent neighbor kids and pets from entering the property. Pool owners with children can also consider the installation of an alarm system to alert them anytime anyone enters the pool area. It is also important to keep rescue equipment, a portable phone and emergency numbers in the pool area at all times.

Diving Rules

Diving is one of the leading causes of injury and death for young adults in backyard pools. Diving should never be permitted in an above ground pool because the water is too shallow. In ground pools are only safe for diving if a diving board is installed and the depth of the pool is adequate. The majority of spinal injuries that occur from diving happened in water that was less than five feet deep. Make sure everyone knows not to dive from the side of the pool and to always dive with their hands in front of them. All other entries to the water should be done feet first, including going down slides.

Proper Equipment Use

If you have an above ground pool, always remove ladders from the sides when the pool is not in use. Keep a proper safety cover over the pool when no one is swimming and always remove it completely before allowing anyone to get in the pool. Do not keep toys near the pool area, since a child may drop the toy in the water and then attempt to go after it. If you or your child requires flotation assistance in the pool, always rely on a proper flotation device rather than a pool toy for help.

Pool Rules

Never assume that a child is safe from drowning just because he knows how to swim. Accidents can happen to anyone, and children need to be supervised at all times when in the pool. Drowning can occur as fast as it takes you to go inside and answer the phone, so keep a phone poolside if you must take or make calls. No one should be allowed into the swimming pool area if they have been drinking alcohol, since it slows response time. If you are unable to locate your child in the house, always check the pool first. Seconds count when it comes to drowning accidents.

Make sure everyone in your family and all visitors to your home understand the rules of the pool and heed them without fail. By carefully heeding these tips, you can have a backyard pool that is both safe and fun.