5 Pool Safety Tips to Follow

For Every Swim, Every Time

Getting a new above ground pool is such an exciting milestone for you, your family and your backyard! And, just like the setup process, understanding key safety tips when anyone is using your pool is essential.

Here are 5 pool safety tips to follow every time*:

1. Keep Watch

Drowning is silent and can happen in an instant. Never leave children unattended in or near your pool. Even a minute is too long! Always designate a "water watcher," which is an adult who is responsible for supervising children in or near the pool. Select Bestway products come with water watcher tags, and it’s a great way to identify who is in charge of keeping an eye on everyone in the pool. Give someone the water watcher tag, and when it’s time to switch and have someone else watch, you can use it as a “hand off” visual so others know as well. Get more tips about designated water watchers in this article from the American Red Cross.

2. Layers of Protection

In addition to adult supervision, install barriers, such as fences, door alarms, and/or safety covers on and around your pool to help prevent unauthorized access to the pool. Always remove your pool ladder when it isn't in use, and take a moment to look around your pool, ensuring furniture and pool equipment are far enough away to prevent children from climbing and gaining access to the pool.

3. Pool Smarts

Give your kids water confidence by making sure they know how to swim and understand water safety skills. When you invite guests over, especially younger ones, make sure you know their abilities, too. Additionally, always take a minute to make sure your pool users understand the proper way to enter/exit the pool before the fun begins. Read this article from the American Red Cross for more tips.

4. Stay Away from the Drain

Pools can be powerful, so be aware of all suction fittings (drains) and do not play or swim near them. Always check the pool drain cover and make sure it is securely in place – it's required for your safety.

5. Be Prepared

As a pool owner, it’s important to know basic life-saving skills like CPR and understand how to render first aid if someone gets injured. Make sure to have life-saving equipment, such as life rings, or a reaching pole readily available at all times near the pool. 

Pool time can be a blast as long as you keep safety in mind. You must take a few moments during your pool setup process to review the important safety information located in your pool’s manual. Can’t locate it? Check bestwayusa.com where you can find digital versions of our product manuals!

To get more pool safety tips, be sure to visit some of the key resources linked below!

*Additional Resources:  CPSC Safety Barrier Guidelines, Pool Safely, PHTA Step into Swim, American Red Cross, American Heart Association