More often than one would think, property managers relegate pool safety to the bottom of their to-do list. Still, it’s a critical aspect of a community’s operation: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the number one cause of unintentional injury death for children aged 1-4 and the second leading cause for ages 5-14.
Summer is here, and besides wearing sunscreen, pool safety becomes a top priority—especially for communities with children. Every day in the United States, an average of 11 children drown (4,000 per year), with thousands more suffering serious injuries from non-fatal incidents. Developing, communicating, and implementing a safety protocol is necessary to avoid accidents on your property—they’re key to keeping your HOA/condos afloat!
The Pillars of Secure Swimming
Constant Vigilance and Physical Barriers
It is crucial to actively supervise pool areas as drownings can occur quickly and quietly. Maintaining constant vigilance around pools is important. Installing fences, self-closing gates, and pool covers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents by preventing unsupervised access.
Clear Communication and Education
It is essential to post clear and visible signage outlining pool rules and safety tips. This informs users of the regulations and precautions they need to follow. Additionally, educating children about water safety and enrolling them in swimming lessons can enhance their confidence and safety.
Preparedness for Emergencies
Training adults in CPR equips them to respond effectively in emergencies. Quick and knowledgeable action can be life-saving, making CPR training valuable for anyone responsible for pool supervision. CPR equipment and defibrillator tools are available and should be considered.
Responsible use
Few things are more rewarding and calming than relaxing by the pool on a sunny day. To guarantee the proper functioning of the area, restrictions must be placed on what the residents can/can’t do. This should be a relatively quiet area with no loud music, zero alcohol or drugs, and no glass containers that could endanger the safety of those in and out of the water. It’s important to note that no kids under the age of 12 should be left unattended, and those without swimming instruction should always wear floaties. As its customary, pools should only be used from sunrise to sunset.
Deep Dive: Other Considerations
- Many homeowner associations face a crucial decision: hiring lifeguards or implementing a “swim-at-your-own-risk” policy. Lifeguards provide professional supervision and immediate emergency response, boosting overall safety. However, this can be expensive due to hiring costs, increased insurance premiums, and challenges in finding and retaining qualified personnel.
- Implementing safety measures is just the first step. Effective communication and streamlined management are vital for maintaining safety standards and ensuring compliance with regulations. Just as important, HOAs and community managers require a platform for easy accessibility. Residents can easily find information about pool safety guidelines, pool hours, and emergency procedures, ensuring everyone knows the necessary precautions.
- Managers will find it convenient to summon an online election and maintain live communication with your residents to update your pool rules and safety updates. They can send real-time notifications and reminders to residents about safety practices, scheduled maintenance, and any changes in pool policies.
- Regular maintenance is vital for pool safety; coordinate maintenance activities to ensure the pool and equipment are in top condition. Service requests can be tracked using a digital platform like ONR, and residents can report issues directly through the platform, facilitating prompt responses and repairs. Communities that allow private pool reservations will also benefit from its ease of use. At the same time, managers can oversee the scheduling to prevent overcrowding and ensure safety protocols are followed during private events.
One thing’s for sure: the temperature continues to rise as the summer months arrive, reminding us of the importance of communities implementing thorough safety protocols. Leveraging cutting-edge digital resources to establish a secure and enjoyable atmosphere for residents is the best way to minimize the risk of accidents and guarantee a season filled with carefree enjoyment.