Hanging out by the pool is one of the greatest ways to enjoy the outdoors in Florida. You may need some therapeutic quiet time to lounge away, read a book, and take a relaxing dip in the cool water when the heat gets to you—or perhaps you enjoy swimming as one of the greatest forms of low-impact, low-stress exercise, doing laps in the evening after work or on the weekends. The pool is also a great area for get togethers, whether you are hosting a kid’s birthday party, or a family get together of all ages.

Safety and swimming should always be synonymous though, as the presence of water means the potential for injury or fatalities due to drowning. Smaller children and those with little swimming experience are extremely vulnerable, and if you are planning to have a lot of activity in the pool over the summer, be sure to have at least one major safety feature installed and functioning as required by Florida law; for example, you may install a barrier such as a fence, or doors and windows fitted with alarms alerting you to anyone entering or exiting the pool area. Safety covers are always recommended too.

Pool maintenance is strongly connected to safety for your swimmers too, whether in a residential or public pool, and the following should be considered:

Use of chemicals – just as recreational water illnesses can be caused by a lack of proper chemicals, an overabundance or negligence in mixing can lead to serious irritation or harm to the eyes as well as respiratory problems, injuries to the skin, and poisoning.

Attention to deck and poolside areas – no matter how many times you remind kids not to run around the pool, chances are it is going to happen anyway. Because of this, make sure there are not areas where standing water collects, making the potential even greater for accidents due to slipping and falling. These areas should also be in good order otherwise, without cracks or signs of disrepair. Any trash or broken glass should be removed immediately too.

Functionality of pumps and drains – these areas have the potential for catastrophic injury or death if not maintained properly, as swimmers’ hair, or even limbs, can become caught and trap them underwater.

Faulty electrical systems – any problems with wiring or electricity in connection with the pool should be attended to immediately due to the potential for electrocution and serious injury or death.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a swimming pool accident, contact the attorneys at Heintz Law. We’ve helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation after accidents. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!

All blogs are written on behalf of Heintz Law for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.