Pool Safety

The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) suggests taking the following steps if you own or are considering purchasing a pool or spa:

Contact Your Town or Municipality

Each town will have its own definition of a “pool,” often based on its size and depth of water. If the pool you plan to buy meets this definition, you must comply with local safety standards and building codes. This may include installing a fence of a certain size, locks, decks, and pool safety equipment.

Call Your Insurance Agent or Company Representative

Let your insurance company know you have a pool since it will increase your liability risk. Pools are considered an “attractive nuisance,” and it may be advisable to purchase additional liability insurance. Most homeowners policies include a minimum of $100,000 worth of liability protection. Pool owners, however, may want to consider increasing the amount to at least $300,000 or $500,000. You may also want to discuss purchasing an umbrella liability policy with your agent or company representative. For an additional premium of about $200 to $300 a year, you can get $1 million of liability protection over and above what you have on your home. If the pool is expensive, you should also have enough insurance protection to replace it if a storm or other disaster destroys it. And don’t forget to include the chairs, tables, or other furniture around the pool deck.

If you have a pool, the I.I.I.  recommends taking the following safety precautions:

1. Install a four-sided barrier, such as a fence with self-closing gates to surround the pool. If the house forms the fourth side of the barrier, install alarms on doors leading to the pool area to prevent children from wandering into the pool or spa unsupervised. In addition to the fences or other barriers required by many towns, consider creating several “layers of protection” around the pool; in other words, setting up as many barriers (door alarms, locks, and safety covers) as possible to the pool area when not in use.
2. Never leave small children unsupervised—even for a few seconds. Never leave toys or floats in the pool when not in use, as they may be a deadly temptation for toddlers trying to reach them, who might fall into the pool.
3. Keep children away from pool filters and other mechanical devices, as the suction force may injure them or prevent them from surfacing. In case of an emergency, know how to shut off these devices and clearly post this information so others can do the same.
4. Ask if pool users know how to swim. A good swimmer should accompany learners. If you have children, have them take swimming lessons as early as possible. And, never allow anyone to swim alone.
5. Check the pool area regularly for glass bottles, toys, or other potential accident hazards. Also, keep CD players, radios, and other electrical devices away from pools or nearby wet surfaces.
6. Limit alcohol use around the pool, as drinking alcoholic beverages negatively impacts balance, coordination, and judgment—and its effects are further heightened by sun exposure and heat. The CDC reports that alcohol use is involved in up to half of adolescent and adult deaths associated with water recreation.
7. Post emergency numbers on the phone in the event of an accident. Keep a first aid kit, ring buoys, and reach poles near the pool. You may also want to learn basic water rescue skills, including first aid and CPR training. For additional information, contact the American Red Cross -Training & Certification>.

Source: Insurance Information Institute