Swimming and splashing around in a pool are most people’s idea of heaven on a hot summers day and is great for all the family. However, while a swimming pool presents many positives, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that a pool in your backyard can pose. No matter whether your pool is fibre glass or concrete, adopting safe practices is essential.
Slippery surfaces
Most pools are surrounded by a tiled area or a wooden deck. While this is a great area to lounge on and sunbathe, when it gets wet it can become slippery and hazardous.
Pool tiles usually become slippery because non-slip tiles weren’t installed in the first instance. Tiles designed to be walked on with bare feet in wet conditions are a necessity. If you can’t afford to replace your tiles with non-slip tiles, then at least invest in bare foot wet area mats which you can easily find online.
Wooden decking usually becomes slippery because of the following factors:
- Lack of sun light in the cooler months
- Rotting leaves and vegetation
- Damp environments
- Build-up of algae
The best way to make your deck clean and safe is to pressure wash it at least once a year to help prevent anyone from falling and injuring themselves.
If your pool is surrounded by concrete, then you may want to look at adding silica sand to concrete sealer so as to provide a textured surface and lower the risk of falls.
Poor chemical storage
Most pools require a variety of chemicals to keep their pool water clean and healthy. When not stored properly, these chemicals ae dangerous. Be sure to keep your chemicals safely locked away in a cool, dry shed, away children.
Pool steps and ladders
Another common location where people can hut themselves is the entry point to your pool where poorly defined steps or loose ladder rails can cause trouble. Using a different colour tile or nosing tiles on the edges of steps in concrete pools, helps reduce step related injuries. Meanwhile it’s important to carry out regular checks on your pool ladder, checking that any bolts are tightened, and the ladder rail isn’t loose. If your ladder is showing signs of corrosion it may be time to replace it.
With a little bit of foresight and regular maintenance, avoiding pool side hazards is as easy as 1,2,3. Don’t forget, too, that if you have children who regularly use your pool, then investing in a pool safety net is the best thing you can do and will give you peace of mind. Our pool safety net is far safer than a fence and has no gaps where children can get in. Why not contact Just Covers on 1300 268377 or check out our website for more details.