Strategies to help keep pools secure at all times

Kentucky residents and others who own swimming pools may have something that makes their homes more valuable and summer months easier to enjoy. However, swimming pools can also be dangerous if not properly secured and cared for. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 3,536 Americans are killed in accidental drownings not related to boating accidents. In addition to drowning, a person could experience a physical injury or get sick in or around a pool.

To help prevent accidents from occurring, a fence should be installed around a pool. It should be at least four feet high and have a gate that cannot be opened by a small child. Anything that could be used to help climb over the fence should be moved away from the fence. If a person is allowed to use the pool, he or she should not run on the pool deck or bring an electronic device near the water.

Toys such as tricycles should also be banned from the pool area. Finally, a pool owner should be sure that all chemicals are secured when not in use. It may also be a good idea to be trained in what to do in the event of a chemical spill or any other sort of emergency occurs on his or her property.

A person may have committed property owner negligence if a pool was left unattended. This might be true even if someone injured while using a pool wasn’t permitted to use it. An injured victim may be entitled to compensation for medical bills or lost wages in a settlement or personal injury lawsuit. If someone dies while using a pool, the victim’s family may pursue compensation for lost future earnings and other damages through a wrongful death lawsuit.