Swimming pools whether inground or above ground, are areas where safety is a very important concept. Therefore, visual and audio communication is extremely necessary to provide reminders and warnings for pool users. With regard to public pools, pool safety signs establish swimming pool rules as well as a caution of various dangers such as pool closure or chemicals in the pool water. If pool personnel such as lifeguards are absent, warning signs are important so swimmers obtain situational awareness.
Some of the methods that help reduce the likelihood of pool accidents include prohibition signs, warning signs, and other pool safety equipment.
Why should you use pool safety signs?
While owning a pool can be lots of fun, you also need to ensure that you do everything the right way. You need to keep in mind that your pool has the potential to be hazardous.
Pool warning signs are an important part of your pool safety program. In addition to providing a layer of protection for pool users, they also help you fulfill your legal and moral duty to warn. In fact, there are certain laws that require pool warning signs for some types of swimming pools. However, these laws vary depending on the area or state where you live.
- Keeping guests safe
Pool warning signs are mainly used to alert pool users or help them understand certain things. For instance, using a warning sign that states that there are no pool attendants present lets people know that there will be no lifeguard to offer assistance in case they encounter any problems. In most places, such signs are required by law especially if you run a commercial or public pool. Be sure to research the specific pool safety requirements that apply to you.
- Warnings about water hazards
Both public and private pools have a responsibility to warn mainly because water presents a hazard, especially to users who are unaware; from precautions to avoid injury or drowning to diving in shallow water.
Pool safety signs and products
1. Pool fencing
Pool fencing is one of the most popular measures to prevent pets and small kids from falling and drowning in pools. If you have an aboveground pool you should install a fence around the edge of your pool as well as along the stairway that leads to the swim platform. It is also important to ensure that the stairway to the pool is gated.
There’s a wide range of above-ground pool fences including fences constructed of resin or fiberglass. Resin fences not only improve safety but are also designed to improve the aesthetic appeal of your pool.
Moreover, resin fences are easy to install and you can either install them yourself or seek the services of swimming pool professionals. Besides enhancing the safety of the pool area for children, the elderly, wildlife, and pets, you can also add accessories such as solar pool lighting to the fence.
Other types of pool fences include mesh and fiberglass fences which are designed to improve safety as well as the look of your pool. Pool fencing acts as a double utility in that it helps prevent accidents and prevents unauthorized access to the pool, hence reducing the risk of liability.
2. Steps and ladders
For above-ground swimming pools pull up and locking ladders and fences are important additions. It is essential to ensure the ladder is installed properly and inspected regularly to ensure it is still attached firmly to the pool. Moreover, stair rails and handrails help protect pool users from slipping on steps or stairs.
There are numerous ladder options available for facilitating safe entry into your pool and your choice largely depends on your specific needs as well as design preferences. Some of the ladder designs include grand entrance drop ladders and A-frame ladders. If you have an above-ground pool avoid sitting or walking on the sides of the pool because falling off can cause serious injuries. Moreover, sitting or walking on the edge could cause your pool to collapse.
3. Pool alarms
Pool alarms are a great safety product. Modern pool alarms are equipped with a new electronic sensing mechanism that does not require any modifications and is designed to sense intrusions of anything weighing 18 pounds or more (similar to a 1-year-old child). Some alarms are activated with a convenient on/off key and you simply need to remove the alarm key to activate it.
Entry into the swimming pool by an intruder, pet, or child is detected by the alarm’s sensor which sets off a piercing, pulsating alarm at the pool and in the home.
These alarms come with a 12V power supply and an in-house receiver with a range of 200 feet or more. Simple, safe, and easy to use, the pool alarm easily snaps onto the top rail of your pool. There are different models of pool alarms available on the market, including both subsurface and surface wave detection alarms.
4. Signs and equipment
Pool signs such as depth markers are also particularly important to have in your pool area. Pool depth signs can be easily applied to tampered glass, vinyl, and ceramic tile overlays. Some of the signs that you should place in the pool area include “slippery when wet”, “Shallow Water, No diving” and “No Jumping” signs.
It is also recommended that pool owners have safety equipment available such as a Shepherd’s Crook and lifesaver rings.
Pool safety signs are designed to be resistant to chemicals, water, and other weather elements, making them ideal for pool applications. The messaging does not fade and they can be conveniently mounted both outdoors and indoors. You can choose wall signs that firmly adhere to windows, signposts, and doors or A-frame signs that you can easily set up and take down as needed.
The bottom line
Establishing and maintaining proper pool safety standards is the main responsibility of pool staff so as to ensure the well-being of all pool users (swimmers and guests).
Pool safety goes hand-in-hand with pool maintenance. Private homeowners and public pool attendants have a primary responsibility to note, address and correct any hazards present in order to prevent accidents.
