Maintaining Pool Safety: Tips for Families with Young Children
- Leah Hughes
- Apr 4
- 5 min read

As the warm weather of summer approaches, many families are looking forward to fun days by the pool. While poolside fun brings excitement, it also comes with the critical responsibility of keeping our loved ones safe, especially young children. As a pool owner, there is nothing of more importance than pool safety with young children. I'll never forget the call I got from my best friend when her youngest drowned in a swimming pool. The relative watching him turned her back for just a moment when the unthinkable occurred. Thankfully, they were able to revive him, and now he's grown into an adult with children of his own. Not every parent is as fortunate, which is why it’s so important to discuss pool safety now as we go into the swimming season. Pool safety is a critical consideration for families, as drowning remains a leading cause of injury-related deaths in children under five. By taking the necessary precautions, parents can help create a safe environment for their kids to enjoy the water while minimizing risks.
Here are essential tips to help you maintain pool safety and keep your little ones safe this summer.
1. Constant Supervision Is Key
One of the most important rules when it comes to pool safety is never to leave children unattended near or in the water. Even if your child is a strong swimmer, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Always designate a responsible adult to supervise children when they are in or near the pool. This supervision should be active and undistracted—avoid using your phone, reading, or engaging in other tasks while keeping an eye on your child.
2. Install Barriers Around the Pool for pool safety with young children
Physical barriers, such as fences, are essential to prevent young children from accessing the pool unsupervised. A four-foot or taller fence with self-closing and self-latching gates can significantly reduce the risk of accidental drownings. Make sure that the fence is free from gaps or climbable areas where children could potentially squeeze through. If you don’t already have a fence around your pool, installing one is a crucial step in enhancing safety. If the gate doesn’t close securely or can easily be opened by a child, it essentially serves no purpose. That's why gates need to be designed to be childproof—out of a child’s reach and locking mechanisms that only adults can operate as well as including features like high latches, self-closing gates and gates that open out instead of in. Even though this is code, make sure if you are building a new pool that your builder applies each of these safety measures.
3. Teach Water Safety Early
It’s never too early to start teaching your children basic water safety skills. Start with familiarizing them with the pool environment, allowing them to get used to the water and feel comfortable in it. As they grow, consider enrolling your child in swim lessons. While swim lessons won’t guarantee complete safety, they can provide children with the skills they need to respond appropriately if they accidentally fall into the pool.
In addition to swimming skills, teaching your children about the dangers of the pool—such as not running around the edge, not pushing others into the water, and how to get out of the pool safely—is important for long-term safety.
4. Equip Your Pool with Safety Equipment
Having proper safety equipment on hand is essential for dealing with emergencies. Make sure your pool is equipped with the following:
Life jackets: For young children or those who are not yet strong swimmers, life jackets provide an extra layer of protection. Ensure that the life jackets are Coast Guard-approved.
Rescue equipment: Keep items such as a life ring, reaching pole, or shepherd’s hook nearby in case of an emergency.
First aid kit: Always have a well-stocked first aid kit accessible in case of injuries or accidents.
Pool Covers: If budget allows, install an automatic pool cover that can be closed when you are not using your pool.
5. Be Cautious Around Pool Drains
Pool drains can be a hidden hazard for children. A child’s hair, clothing, or body can get caught in the drain, leading to dangerous situations. Make sure all pool drains are equipped with anti-entrapment covers to prevent suction accidents. Additionally, always supervise children closely around pool drains, as they may be unaware of the potential danger.
6. Avoid Poolside Distractions
Pools are fun, but they can also be dangerous if there are too many distractions. When supervising children, try to avoid being distracted by phones, conversations, or other activities that can take your focus away from the pool. Make sure the entire family understands the importance of focused attention when around water.
7. Know How to Perform CPR
Knowing how to perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a crucial life skill for any parent or guardian with children who use the pool. In the event of an emergency, CPR can make the difference in saving a life. Consider taking a CPR and first aid course, and keep those skills up to date.
8. Teach Kids Poolside Etiquette
It's important to instill good habits in your children to ensure everyone enjoys the pool safely. Teach them the following poolside etiquette:
No running near the pool, as slipping and falling are common accidents.
Always wait for an adult’s permission before entering the pool.
No roughhousing or pushing other children into the water.
Follow pool rules, such as not diving into shallow water.
By promoting these behaviors, you can reduce the chances of accidents and ensure a more enjoyable time for everyone.
9. Monitor Water Quality and Temperature
Good water quality is essential to pool safety. A clean pool is not only more enjoyable to swim in, but it also helps prevent infections and accidents. Ensure that your pool is regularly maintained by checking the pH levels, chlorine levels, and filtration system. Additionally, monitor the pool's water temperature, as excessively cold or hot water can lead to discomfort or even shock for young children.
10. Have a Plan in Case of Emergency
Despite all precautions, accidents can still happen. Be prepared by having an emergency plan in place. Make sure every adult knows how to contact emergency services (911 or your local emergency number) and has access to your pool's emergency equipment. Having a clear plan in place can help you stay calm and act quickly during an emergency.
Final Thoughts
As you prepare for summer fun, pool safety should always be at the forefront of your mind. By following these tips, you can ensure that your young children enjoy the pool in a safe and secure environment. Remember, while water safety is about prevention, it’s also about being prepared for emergencies. With the right precautions, you can create a fun and secure swimming experience for the whole family. Happy swimming! Leah Hughes, Owner of Texas Innovative Pools www.txinnovativepools.com
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