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Public and residential pools can be a great source of family fun and togetherness. Each year, however, we hear of unfortunate stories involving drownings or other pool-related injuries. Ft. Myers personal injury attorney Randall Spivey and his team want you and your family to enjoy the pool while remembering to keep safety first.

In an effort to keep individuals safe while using spas and pools, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) launched a national campaign to lower the number of child drownings, entrapments and non-fatal submersion injuries. The campaign, which is called Pool Safely: Simple Steps to Save Lives, seeks to encourage those in the pool industry, as well as consumers, to follow and heed proven water safety steps and share information with respect to best practices.

What You Need to Know About Residential Pool Safety

Never leave children unattended at the pool. Sure, you’ve heard it a million times before, but there are still individuals who need to be reminded of this important rule. If you’re in your own pool at home or a neighbor’s pool, always watch your kids -- even if they are simply standing or playing near the pool area.

It is also important for parents and caregivers to teach their children simple water safety tips. If you and/or your kids do not know how to swim, take lessons. You should also keep a phone nearby at all times whenever you are at the pool. It is also a good idea to maintain a pool safety kit. The CPSC suggests that the kit contain the following:

• A charged portable phone that can be used to contact 911 in case of emergency
• A flotation device
• A pair of scissors that can be used to cut clothing, hair or a pool cover (if necessary)
• A first aid kit

Many pool-related injuries and deaths are preventable. Practicing proven safety measures can go a long way toward keeping you and your loved ones more secure and safe both in and around pools.

Community Pools

For many individuals who do not have the luxury of having a pool at home, visiting a community pool is the only option. You should be aware that public pool owners and operators are required by law to abide by certain regulations and rules with respect to ensuring their facilities are safe.

Prior to enjoying any public pool, individuals are encouraged to ask certain questions to learn more about the facility’s safety plan and practices. For example, does the pool have a fence around it that will limit its access? You might also want to ask when the last pool inspection was done, and does it meet federal and local law standards. Is there adequate life-saving equipment available for children and adults?

These are just a few questions that can help you determine whether or not the particular pool you’re visiting is properly prepared to keep you and your family as safe as possible.

Of course, you will want to practice some of the tips mentioned previously as well. Always be alert and watchful of your children. Look for posted safety rules and review them with your children prior to entering the water. If there is a lifeguard available, make note of where he or she is located in case of emergency.

Splashing in the pool with family and friends can be an enjoyable time. Don’t let the fun times turn into a tragic incident. If you have questions or concerns about pool safety, or if you have been hurt or lost a loved one in a pool-related incident, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. today.