One of the best things about living in Florida is that any time of year can be considered swimming pool season. Although swimming pools can be a lot of fun, they can also be very dangerous, especially for younger children. In fact, each year, approximately 1,150 children ages 14 and under drown, more than half of which are preschoolers ages 0 to 4. In addition, a swimming pool is 14 times more likely than a motor vehicle to be involved in the death of a child age 4 and under.
If you own a swimming pool, here are some preventative measures that you can take to protect children from accessing your pool when there is no adult supervision.
Fence in pools that are separate from the home. Fences should be 4 to 5 feet in height.
Keep the fence clear on both sides to prevent a child from climbing over the fence and into the pool area. Things like chairs, tables and tree branches should be removed from the near the fencing.
Use self-latching and closing gates that open outward. Make sure that the latch is at the top of the gate so that it is inaccessible by small children.
Secure all doors and windows that lead to the pool.
Make sure that all your children are taught how to swim.
Seven Swimming Pool Safety Tips
In addition to taking preventative measures to protect against accidents, here are seven safety tips all pool owners should adopt to ensure a fun and safe swimming season for all.
Do not assume that an infant or toddler cannot get to the pool.
Supervise children and non-swimmers at all times
To avoid entrapments, keep children away from all drains.
Keep the pool deck free from toys and debris.
Make sure the pool depths are clearly marked.
Do not permit horseplay.
Teach your children basic water safety tips.
Who is Responsible for a Florida Swimming Pool Injury or Death
Unfortunately, even when preventative and safety measures are taken, accidents can still happen. If the accident occurs due to a condition on the property, the property owner is usually held to be at fault. This is why all property owners should have insurance to cover for any liability for injury or death. However, if the accident is caused by and unsafe product, such as a pool toy or faulty pool equipment, the manufacturer of the product is generally held responsible.
Get the Help and Guidance You Need After
a Florida Swimming Pool Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a swimming pool accident, it’s important that you consult with a qualified Florida personal injury attorney. The attorneys at SouthShore Injury Attorneys have extensive litigation experience and handle only personal injury claims. If you’ve suffered injuries in a Florida swimming pool accident, contact SouthShore Injury Attorneys at (813) 419-3866 for a free consultation.
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