Summer is flying by and before it ends, treat your family and kids to a terrific pool party. While many regions are restricting public gatherings to ten people or less, this still allows you to invite your kids’ closest friends and peers over for some swim fun.
When planning a party for your children, the most important element to consider is pool safety. In fact, safety should be part of the party planning process. Make sure that your pool is safe by local code and municipal standards and always adhere to county laws regarding swimming pool safety in your region. If you live in Texas, Arizona, or Florida, reach out to the pool professionals at Pool Troopers to prepare for a pool party that your kids will talk about long after!
Some elements to consider when planning your safe pool party include:
On-Site CPR
Basic first aid and CPR skills are vital to pool safety; if you are going to invite children over to swim in your pool, make sure that someone on-site knows CPR. Be cognizant of whether the kids invited know how to swim, and perhaps barricade off the deep end of your pool to prevent any issues. This does not eliminate the need for constant, adult supervision, however- but more on that later.
Cleaning and Chemicals
Before your party, get the pool serviced and ready for guests. Schedule an appointment to have it cleaned and chemically treated at least 24-48 hours prior to your event. Opt for something a bit special like the Freedom Enhanced package which includes premium chemical treatment service for your pool with an Ozone or UV system to create the optimal low chemical, best skin-feel swim experience. This is only available for Pool Troopers clients in Arizona, Texas, and Florida.
Adult Supervision
Anytime that children are swimming in the pool, supervision is key, but this is increased ten-fold when you invite others to join in. It helps if the kids know how to swim, but if not, request that their parent stays with them during the party. Arrange to implement safety vests, rings, wings, or other floatation devices for your guests during their water time.
Drain Safety
Pool drains are dangerous and nothing to mess around with. Keep kids away from the drains. Remember the little girl, Virginia Graeme Baker, who was trapped and killed by the suction of the drain in her family’s hot tub. In fact, this initiated ‘The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act’, a law mandating pool safety campaign. Drains are powerful and pose a danger to adults, children, and even pets. Talk to your swimming pool service provider to find ways to make the drains safer for anyone who uses your pool, hot tub, or spa.
Swimming and Food
Parents put a lot of trust in the myth that kids should wait a period of time after eating to take a swim; the fear is that the child will suddenly experience debilitating cramping, nausea, or other maladies that could cause them difficulty in the water – even drowning! The truth is that food and swimming are fine together; industry experts report that the biggest potential risk you could experience when you swim right after a meal is a minor cramp. A bigger problem with children eating while swimming is them getting food and trash in the pool that could cause issues with your pump or filter. Keep a net nearby and fish out anything that gets accidentally dropped; after all, they are children! Also, prohibit glassware, bottles, or anything that could get broken and hurt those walking barefoot or swimming in the pool.
Slick Decks
Do not allow any running of any kind on the pool deck; this is an accident waiting to happen. Pool decks are slick and slippery; in a moment, disaster can strike. What is worse is that running increases the risk of falling into the pool, which increases the chance that someone could drown. Encourage compliance to the no-running rule with obstacles and barriers that prevent free access and a clear way to run. Use cones, gates, and even potted plants to block a clear path that invites running.
Also, pool decks can be more treacherous during humid weather due to algae. Have your deck cleaned and pressure washed prior to the party, and every season, to keep it clean and less of a fall risk. This bacteria and algae also compromise the air quality in and around your property; some children may have sensitivities or allergies to algae that forms in humid places – like your pool. Having the pool deck cleaned periodically helps to create a safer, healthier environment.
Security Alarms
If you really want to make a safer pool space, consider investing in and installing alarms. Again, this is an excellent discussion to have with your pool service professional and supply retailer. For instance, if your pool is indoors or directly outside the home’s doors, you can get alarms on the doors to notify you when someone is that close to your pool. Many alarms will deactivate after a specific time, usually 15-20 seconds after activation. Test them out to make sure that you can hear your pool alarm from all areas and rooms of the house. Experts suggest alarm switches be installed up high so that children are unable to touch, mess with, or access them.
Say goodbye to summer with a pool party that your kids won’t forget. Call on the pros at Pool Troopers servicing pools in Florida, Texas, or Arizona, widely to make sure that your pool is as clean and clear as it can be! Be sure to pay attention to safety when planning and pulling together your party by considering ways to keep your young guests safe while still enjoying the experience of swimming in your pool. Use these suggestions and tips to make sure your pool is safe and ready for your pool party and summer get-togethers. Call to schedule pool cleaning and treatment services today!
