If you own a swimming pool, it can mean long days of summer fun for your family and friends. If you are a business owner who as a pool on your premises, it can also be great for business, especially during the hot months of the year.
However, by having a pool on your property, you are also taking on a large responsibility, whether it is for your private enjoyment or whether it is a part of your business model. Not making your pool area a safe environment can not only mean that someone may be harmed on your watch, but also that you could face serious legal repercussions that could seriously injure both your finances and your reputation.
Safety Tips For Reducing Drowning & Injury Risk At Pools
- Gates, fencing, and walls should completely surround your pool. Be certain that gates and walls are at least four feet tall–and are not easy to climb. Be certain that all gates have tamper-proof locks. If your pool is an indoor pool, be sure that all entrances have child-proof locks.
- Gates should self-close. Humans are fallible. Make sure your gates close and latch/lock automatically behind anyone who enters the pool area.
- Consider a pool alarm. Private pool owners can invest in an alarm system that goes off when the surface of the water is broken. This is an especially good idea if pool owners have young children.
- Increase supervision. Public pool owners can consider the cost of hiring a lifeguard to make sure accidents are prevented and that rules are followed by pool users. They may also invest in a security camera. If you own a public pool and do not have a lifeguard on duty, state so in a sign.
- Post the rules. Both public and private pool owners can increase safety by letting everyone in the pool area know the rules. A list of pool rules can be simple and effective, with notes like: no diving, no running, and no using the pool at night, etc.
- Have a emergency pool ring. All pool owners can increase safety by having a pool ring readily available for use during an emergency. This is a low-cost item that can increase peace of mind and prevent injury.
- Lock away pool toys. Pool toys like floats can be tempting for small children, who may fall in trying to access them. In general floatation devices can be dangerous elements in pools and some pool owners ban them all together to increase patron safety.
- Look into your insurance policy. In the event of an accident, you want to make sure that your insurance will cover costs in the terrible event of an injury or death.
Federal Way Premises Liability Attorney Chong Ye Can Help You & Your Case
If you or a loved one have been injured in a pool or pool area, it is vital to know your rights and to secure justice. Even if you aren’t sure whether or not you might need an attorney, talking to an experienced attorney can help you learn about your potential case as well as what you might deserve under Washington State premises liability law. You may be owed compensation for damages, which can include hospital bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Request a free, private consultation today by calling (253) 946-0577 or by filling out this short form.