Whether you have a swimming pool or are considering installing one, swimming pool safety is of the utmost importance. According to the CPSC (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) there are over 250 drowning deaths in residential swimming pools in the United States each year. This statistic only includes children under the age of 5.
Hundreds more are treated in emergency rooms across the nation for submersion related injuries, many resulting in lifelong disabilities. Perhaps the most tragic feature of this statistic is that each of these drowning deaths and submersion injuries were preventable. One of the most effective safety devices on the market are swimming pool alarms. There are several styles of alarms.
They are either in-ground alarms or above-ground alarms and come in a variety of sizes and styles. They can be put on doors inside the house that give access to the area, on gates leading into a pool and lastly on the pool itself. In addition, there are pool alarms that can be worn like a watch on a child's wrist or ankle. When shopping for swimming pool alarms, be sure that they meet the requirements set forth by the ASTM. Many alarms can be connected to your existing HSS (home security system). If you don't have an HSS, be sure to purchase a swimming pool alarm that includes a remote receiver that emits a loud signal if the alarm is activated and can be used inside the house or in an area away from the pool where it is most likely to be heard.
This is crucial for effective swimming pool safety and rescue. The underwater alarm is triggered when an object weighing 15 pounds or more falls into the pool. Seconds count when a child falls into a pool. In addition to swimming pool alarms some additional safety tips include: 1. Proper adult supervision. 2.
Install a fence at least 4 feet high around the area. Be sure that the gates are self-closing, self-locking and fitted with a alarm. 3.
Always have a life-saving device readily available such as a life-saver ring with rope and a net with a long pole. 4. Always keep a telephone pool side and emergency numbers visibly posted. 5. Know CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) It is also wise to have your pool inspected annually by an experienced technician. Especially important to have inspected are the drain covers and suction fittings that can prevent hair entanglement and/or body entrapment.
Some pools have only a single drain outlet. If this is the case with yours, it would be wise to install a safety vacuum release system to prevent an entrapment situation from occurring. Making safety a priority is the best prevention you have to avoid devastating losses and deaths.
Rob Traugott serves as President of Laguna Pools, a premier pool and spa builder located in Katy, Texas. Laguna Pools has designed and built custom swimming pools, in the greater Houston area for over 30 years. Contact Rob Traugott at 281-392-8833 or visit http://www.lagunapools.com
