Backyard and Pool Safety Tips!

As the weather gets warmer, more families will take part in outdoor activities, including cooling off in their backyard pool and grilling with loved ones. Follow these tips to ensure that your friends and family are safe and secure while having fun this Summer!

1. Make sure all gates in the barrier fence for your pool are self-closing and self-latching.
2. Remove all chairs, tables, large toys or other objects that would allow a child to climb up to reach the gate latch or enable the child to climb over the pool isolation fence.
3. Reaching and throwing aids like poles should be kept on both sides of the pool. These items should remain stationary and not be misplaced through play activities.
4. All pool and hot tub drains (suction outlets) must have a cover or grate that meets industry standards for suction fittings marked to indicate compliance with ANSI/ASME A112.19.8 2007. Check to see that these covers are not broken or in disrepair, and that they are anchored firmly over the drain openings.
5. Install a pool alarm to detect accidental or unauthorized entrance into the water. While the alarm provides an immediate warning, it does not substitute for the barrier fences, door alarms and safety covers required by the code.
6. Install either an automatic or manual safety cover to completely block access to water in the pool. Never allow anyone to stand or play on a pool cover.
7. Check for warning signs of an unsafe deck, including loose or wobbly railings or support beams, missing or loose screws that connect a deck to the house, corrosion, rot and cracks. Place grills away from siding, deck railings and out from under leaves and overhanging branches. Also, do NOT use grills in a garage, porch or enclosed area that could trap carbon monoxide.
8. When grilling, have a fire extinguisher, a garden hose or at least 4 gallons of water close by in case of a fire.
9. Keep children away from fires and grills. Establish a safety zone around the grill and instruct the children to remain outside of the zone. A chalk line works great for this purpose. Never leave the grill unattended.