Should Grandparents Install a Pool Fence?
Keeping children safe around water is our top concern. As we’ve written in the past, active supervision is crucial for children in or near water. That said, a pool fence is a huge asset when it comes to water safety. Keeping this in mind, should grandparents install a pool fence?
As you may have guessed, the answer is yes, but read on to learn more.
The Value of a Pool Fence
Children between the ages of one and four have the highest drowning rates. Most of these drownings occur in home swimming pools. In fact, drowning is responsible for more deaths among this age group than any other cause except congenital anomalies (birth defects). Fatal drowning also remains the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths behind motor vehicle crashes among those 1-14.
Installing a pool fence is a highly recommended safety measure. A four-sided pool fence that completely separates the pool area from the house and yard is best, and it should be at least four feet high. Use self-closing and self-latching gates that open outward with latches that are out of reach of children. Also, consider additional barriers, such as automatic door locks and alarms that alert you if someone enters the pool area or prevents access altogether. Check your pool fence periodically for proper function.
Should Grandparents Install a Pool Fence?
When it comes to DIY fences, some of our older readers might be hesitant installing a fence. They shouldn’t be. In addition to easy-to-follow instructions, there is readily available help from our talented customer service team.
Installing your own mesh pool fence is easier than many people realize, but we understand that it can seem daunting. Fortunately, we are here to help. In the end, should grandparents install a pool fence? We absolutely think so. The possibility of saving a child’s life is always worth the extra effort. Give us a call or contact our team so we can help.
Additional Safety Steps:
Beyond the fence, we always advise adding multiple layers of security to your pool area. After all, it is an awfully big gamble to put all your eggs in a single basket. Instead, introduce extra security options. They can add peace of mind and far more protection.
Active Supervision
Appointing a responsible focused adult as an active supervisor who is watching the kids in the pool area is always a good idea. This person should not engage in other activities such as reading, texting, or playing games on their phone.
Drain Danger
In addition, it is important to teach children to stay away from drains and suction outlets, especially in spas and shallow pools. Never enter a pool or spa that has a loose, broken, or missing drain cover. Children's hair, limbs, jewelry, or bathing suits can get stuck in the drain or suction opening. Make sure to locate the emergency vacuum shutoff before using a spa or hot tub.
Get Rid of the Toys
It's essential to clear the pool and deck of toys immediately after use so that children are not tempted to enter the pool area unsupervised. Ensure that the pool area is always properly secured in a way that prevents access to the water when no one is looking, especially for grandparents who have grandchildren visiting.
Install Locks and Alarms
Install locks and alarms on any doors and windows that lead to your pool area. This will let you know if any children or pets make their way outdoors. Include an additional submersion alarm inside the pool. With this precaution, the whole house will be alerted if someone unexpectedly make their way into the water.
For grandparents, pool safety for their grandchildren should be a top priority. Installing a pool fence is an important step, but it should not be relied on as the only safety measure.
Remember, a pool fence is only intended to supplement direct adult supervision; and it's not intended to replace it. Never leave a child unattended.
