Having a pool is the perfect way to have a fun summer with your kids. However, adding a pool to your home comes with many considerations. If you have young kids, you may worry about your children running around the pool, sun exposure or the chemicals being used in the pool. However, there are simple safety precautions you can take to relax instead of worry while hanging out at the pool.
Knowing How to Swim
One of the most important ways to stay safe around the pool is knowing how to swim. While your infants or toddlers won't be able to swim on their own yet, you, as the parent, should know how to swim. In the event that something happens, knowing how to swim could be a lifesaver.
It's also essential that your children learn how to swim. Most children are ready to learn how to swim by age 4. Of course, you'll want to work at each child's pace so they can properly learn how to swim. However, don't wait until they're way older to teach them. Teaching them to swim as early as possible gives them the tools they need to stay safe around water and will help both of you feel more comfortable being around the pool.
Protection From the Sun
Make sure you always have a stockpile of sunscreen! Proper skin protection can also be a lifesaver, as too many sunburns can increase your risk of developing skin cancer later on. Sunburn is also painful, itchy and uncomfortable. The easiest fix to avoid the hassle is to apply sunscreen, then apply it again and again.
While the specific times may differ slightly depending on the brand you're using, you should reapply:
Immediately after drying off with a towel.
After 80 minutes of swimming or sweating.
At least every two hours.
For maximum protection, you're going to want to apply your first round of sunscreen at least 20 minutes before swimming or sweating outside. This period will allow the sunscreen time to dry and your skin to absorb that protection.
When shopping for sunscreen, you'll want to purchase all the correct products. For instance, there are different sunscreens for babies, kids and adults. The ones made specifically for babies and kids are going to be higher SPF and easier on their sensitive skin. Most sunscreens come in either a lotion or a spray, and both are effective. The decision between these two types is more about your preference.
Additionally, there are special sunscreens for faces. You want to avoid spraying sunscreen directly on the face, as it can get into your eyes or mouth and cause irritation. Most sunscreen brands make a special face bar or lotion. You'll want to invest in these options because it makes applying much easier. They're made for the face, which has more sensitive skin than the rest of the body. Face sunscreen will keep your face from breaking out or pores from clogging up.
You never want to forget your lips! You may think your lips are fine, but they're just as exposed as the rest of your body. A lip sunburn is one of the most painful kinds. While many chapsticks have SPF in them already, there are special sunscreens you can buy for your lips if necessary.
You'll definitely want to protect yourself and your kids from painful sunburns and an enhanced risk of skin cancer. Make sure you always have plenty of sunscreen available around your pool.
Using Pool Chemicals Properly
When it comes to maintaining your pool, we all know you have to use chemicals to keep it clean and ward off algae growth. You'll need:
Chlorine and bromine to sanitize the pool.
Algaecides to kill any algae growth.
pH balancers to keep your swimmers healthy, because pH levels that are too high or too low can cause eye or skin irritations.
Alkalinity balancers, which work with the pH to keep everyone healthy.
Hardness balancers to keep your calcium levels perfect, maintaining your pool and equipment.
Pool shock, which helps the sanitizers eliminate the bacteria and should be done every week.
Some people might worry about their children's exposure to these different chemicals. However, these chemicals are actually working together to keep everyone safe. Without these chemicals and treatments, bacteria and algae in the water will have a bigger pool party than you, which could cause you and your family to get sick.
It's very important that you use your chemicals as instructed. You should use the exact amounts specified and as often as instructed.
Parental Supervision
There's nothing more important than parental supervision when it comes to pool safety! As scary as it is to think about, accidents happen around pools. If something happens without supervision, no one will know until it's too late. With proper supervision, someone will be able to quickly respond and help anyone in need. Never let a child swim without someone watching them.
If possible, you'll want to make sure someone who knows CPR is present. In the event that an emergency occurs, knowing CPR could make the difference in saving someone's life. Additionally, keep a phone nearby. If you do have to call 911 for help in an urgent situation, having a cell phone nearby can save time and get help to your location faster.
While it can be upsetting to think about these things, it's always best to be prepared for the worst. That way, you can relax by the water and enjoy your pool with the knowledge that you can safely handle any situation that arises.
Choose Quantus Pools for Your Pool Needs
At Quantus Pools, we pride ourselves on getting to know our clients and building relationships. We want our clients to know that they aren't just another customer to us. We care for you, your family and everyone's safety when you swim in our pools.
We can help you build your dream pool and maintain it for you to ensure it stays in great condition. We offer weekly maintenance, repairs, pool liner installation and more! Our certified team of technicians includes some of the best in this field and they'll help with any problems you're experiencing.
If you're interested in our pool designing services or our maintenance help, you can give us a call at 847-907-4995, email us at info@quantuspools.com or fill out the contact form on our website. Contact us for your pool needs in the Chicagoland area today!