Opening Up: Preparing for Spring

The weather is finally turning nicer. Furthermore, it seems like many of the COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted across the world. As we are preparing for spring, let’s talk about some safety measures that can keep us all safe and sound.

Opening Up Slowly: Kiddie Pools

Before anyone starts taking the cover off the pool, why not take it slow? Many of us have been cooped up in the house and looking to cool off. If you’re still preparing for spring, try to reintroduce the kids to the kiddie pool. This can be a nice way to “dip your feet” back into the summer the summer water fun that’s to come!

Just remember, even though the kiddie pool seems harmless, it can still be a hazard. According to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, drowning can happen in as little as 20-60 seconds. Furthermore, drowning doesn’t always look the way people expect. There isn't always screaming or flailing like in the movies. In fact, drowning is fast, and often silent. That’s true for big pools as well as kiddie pools.

While preparing for spring, parents should always remember the value of active supervision. In just a few inches of water, there is drowning danger. Basically, any time there is enough water to cover the nose and mouth, it can be a deadly situation.

We’ve written about this topic extensively, so you can learn more at our dedicated blog about kiddie pool safety.

Preparing for Spring with Your Pool

So now that we’ve handled the kiddie pool, let’s talk about the real deal. If you’re preparing for spring by opening your pool, be sure to take care when removing the safety cover.

Additionally, a pool owner will want to refill and filter the existing water that’s in there. You see, during the off-season, a lot of the existing water has likely evaporated. That’s totally normal and easily fixed with a garden hose. Simply leave the hose dipped into the pool until you’re back at the right level. This might take a while, so use this time to skim and vacuum out any debris or leaves that may have gathered.

Next, that water needs to be cleaned and filtered. To do this, run your pool filter overnight. The next day, scoop out a sample of your pool’s water and bring it to a pool professional. They’ll be able to tell you the proper mix of chemicals you’ll need to add to your pool to keep it sparkling clean. A testing kit will tell you the right mix of these chemicals that you will need in order to control the pH, total alkalinity, and chlorine levels of your pool.

Spring and Beyond

Of course, as every pool owner knows, cleaning the pool isn’t a one-time job. It takes special attention all spring and summer long.

At regular intervals throughout the hotter months, dip a testing strip into the water. You’re going to want to manage the chemical levels to make sure your water stays crystal clear… without going overboard. Otherwise you might end up accidentally burning your swimmers’ skin or eyes.

Don’t Forget CPR

Finally, preparing for spring isn’t all pool opening tasks. Before the swimming season really picks up, it’s a great time to renew your CPR certification if it has lapsed.

CPR training is an absolutely life saving basic skill that every person should know. If a drowning incident occurs, having the proper knowledge to react during the first moments is invaluable. It pays to learn and keep up to date with this training.

Happy spring and happier swimming!