Water Safety

Following the safety tips mentioned here can help make your pool or spa more safe and fun. While this list is in no way meant to be all inclusive, it covers some of the more common safety problems associated with swimming pools and spas.

If you have additional safety questions, Eastgate Pools & Spas can get you the information that you need or if needed we will refer you to the proper safety experts.

 

TIPS TO HELP KEEP YOUR POOL SAFE

1. Never allow anyone to dive into an above ground pool. There are no above ground pools that are classified as diving pools. Diving into shallow water can be fatal or cause permanent injury.
2. On inground pools, make sure that all pool users know where they are allowed to dive into your pool, if your pool is classified as a diving pool. If your pool is not designated as a diving pool, do not let ANYBODY dive into it. Make sure that everyone knows the proper diving techniques. Remember, the pool owner is responsible and liable for the safety of all pool users. If you have questions about whether your pool is classified as a diving pool, PLEASE ask!
3. Never use or work around the pool during a thunderstorm.
4. Keep a first aid kit in a location where both friends and family can easily find it.
5. Keep all electrical appliances away from the pool. These appliances should be kept far enough away to ensure that they cannot fall or accidentally be knocked into the pool. Eastgate strongly urges the use of Ground Fault Interrupters (GFI's) on any outlets around the pool. GFI's will shut the power off at the outlet in case of trouble.
6. Never swim alone, and if a non-swimmer is using the pool, make sure that they are closely supervised. It is a very good idea to keep a life ring and safety hook at poolside. Many boat stores & marinas carry Coast Guard Approved life rings.
7. Follow all local codes on fencing. The laws vary, but a pool should always be fenced.
8. Avoid glass near the pool.
9. Never swim immediately after chemicals have been added. Follow manufacturer recommendations about appropriate wait times.
10. Keep appropriate safety devices on-hand, such as Shepherd's Hooks and flotation rings.
11. Never run the pool's filtration system off an extension cord.
12. Always use slides and diving boards as directed.
13. Never alter any of the safety features on a pool. All returns and intakes have covers that must remain in place.
14. Never mix chemicals together, and always read the manufacturer's label for proper chemical usage.
15. Keep emergency phone numbers in a place where everyone can find them. Emergency phone number stickers can normally be obtained from your local fire department.

 

SPA SAFETY

The time you spend in your spa should be relaxing and enjoyable. But like many other things in life, there are certain precautions that you must take to ensure the safety of everyone who uses the spa. The following list is intended to be a starting point for the safe use of your spa. It is in no ways meant to be an all inclusive list.

SMALL CHILDREN/PREGNANT WOMEN Under no circumstances should small children or pregnant women use a spa without prior consultation with their physician. Exposing children or pregnant women to the hot water in a spa can cause severe medical problems. (The general rule of thumb in determining "small children" is ten years of age. Since this figure can vary, you should consult your doctor.)

Another very important reason to supervise children's use of a spa is the risk of drowning. When supervision is not possible, the spa's hard cover should be locked down.

MEDICAL PROBLEMS Persons suffering from heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure, or other health problems should not use a spa without consulting their doctor. Failure to follow his or her advice could result in accidental drowning in the spa.

ALCOHOL & DRUG CONCERNS Though Hollywood likes to portray a romantic couple in a spa drinking wine, in real life this is an extremely dangerous practice that can result in drowning. Likewise, narcotics and drugs that cause sleepiness, drowsiness, or raise/lower blood pressure can have the same effect.

RISK OF BURNS Before entering your spa, always check the water temperature with a reliable thermometer. You should never enter the spa if the water temperature exceeds 104°F.

OVER EXPOSURE All good things must come to an end. As relaxing as your spa is, you must avoid staying in it too long, especially if you are using the spa by yourself. Overexposure to hot water can cause nausea, dizziness, and fainting. To be safe, do not use the spa for more than 10 to 15 minutes per session unless you lower the water temperature. If at all possible, do not use the spa alone.

SLIPPERY WHEN WET The acrylic surface of your spa is more than beautiful. It can also be extremely slippery. Extreme caution must be used when entering and exiting the spa. Also, always fully remove a spa cover when using the spa. And never alter or remove safety intake covers or skimmer covers when using your spa.

ELECTROCUTION In order to protect the users of your spa from electrocution, portable radios, T.V's, and other electrical devices must be kept away from the spa's water. Do not attempt to operate these devices while wet. All outlets around the spa should be G.F.C.I. protected. Also, never use your spa during an electrical storm.

SANITATION Change your water per retailer and manufacturer recommendation and keep chemical sanitizers at proper levels. Throw the old filter away and get a new one every year. Never mix non-compatible chemicals. Call and ask us for professional assistance if you have questions.

 

Safety Related Links

Greater Cincinnati American Red Cross

American Red Cross - Homepage

NSPI Children's Safety Page

 

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