Why You Need to Invest in a Pool Alarm This Summer
Nearly 300 children drown in backyard pools each year.
Nearly 300 young kids drown each year in backyard pools, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Pools are a major cause of accidental deaths, especially for children under 5 years old. As parents, we know that kids are quick and curious — a dangerous combination when it comes to hazards around the house and in the backyard. That's why you should invest in a pool alarm so you’ll know when someone enters the pool area.
Depending on your municipality, there may be specific requirements for your pool about the type of alarm you can use. Keep in mind that it may be necessary to install more than one, but it comes down to the size and shape of your pool. Here are the best types of pool alarms to use in 2019:
Surface Wave Detection Pool Alarm
Most surface wave detection alarms are mounted to the pool's deck. There's a sensor that extends on top of the water or floats on the water, and waves trigger the alarm.
Sub-Surface Detection Pool Alarm
This type of pool alarm involves sensors located below the surface of the water. The alarm is triggered when there is a change in water pressure.
Pool Immersion Alarm
For this type of pool alarm system, a child usually wears a wristband. When the wristband is submerged in water, the base unit will be alerted.
Pool Gate Alarm
These alarms are installed where people enter the pool area. Unauthorized entry will trigger this type of pool alarm, alerting you of kids near the pool.
Pool Safety Precautions to Keep In Mind
• Install barriers (at least 4 feet high, ideally higher) around your pool. Place barriers where other permanent structures can’t provide easy access for climbing over the barriers and getting to the pool.
• Install self-closing and self-latching devices or locks on all access points, and make sure they are inaccessible to children.
• Install an audible alert on a home door that allows access to the swimming pool, so that you know when the door is opened.
• Use a pool cover when it is not in use and ensure that it is in proper working condition.
• Supervise children at all times, and make sure there is someone responsible and capable (i.e. CRP- and First Aid-certified) watching the water when kids are in the pool.
• Keep life-saving equipment like life rings or a reaching pole readily accessible.
• Enroll in Red Cross courses to teach kids how to swim.
• Keep the pool properly maintained with chemical levels to minimize irritations or other related issues.
• Use anti-entrapment safety drain covers to prevent injuries from the pool drain's suction.
• Teach kids pool smarts: stay away from drain covers, buddy-up when you swim, never run in the pool area, etc.
Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years, overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems.
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