The Best Safety Purchase You Can Make For Your Pool

Along with the fun that comes with owning a pool, there's a certain amount of responsibility for your family's safety and that of your visitors. Perhaps you may have already invested in various safety features, such as fencing and a gate, which are required in many states' safety codes. Additionally, you may have invested in drain covers and alarm systems along with the standard accessories used for rescues and first aid, such as a shepherd's hook, an inner tube with a rope, and a first aid kit. 

However, if you want an additional layer of protection for your pool, you may want to consider installing a pool cover. A well-installed, sturdy cover adds more protection in the event of someone accidentally falling in. While the thick vinyl material might be the first image that comes to mind when you picture a pool cover, these days, you have several other options to choose from.

A pool cover is constructed from heavy vinyl that's strengthened by a PVC coating, which results in a surface that can't be penetrated or torn. It's also built to hold up to 485 pounds, which means that if young children, small pets, or even an adult were to fall on top of it, the gravitational force would not cause the cover to detach from the anchors and sink.

In addition to the cover's sturdy construction, it attaches using solid brass anchors and durable steel springs that are strategically spaced around the pool's perimeter. Once everything is installed, this system works effectively to pull the cover tightly over the pool to the point where nothing can slip underneath. Plus, you can count on the anchors to keep the cover in place even in stormy weather. However, it's still important to remind youngsters that the cover is not meant to be a play space, and it should only be walked upon if it's an emergency.

An alternative to the vinyl safety cover is an automatic pool cover, which comes equipped with a roller at one end that rolls up the cover when you want to allow entrance into the pool. The cover itself then moves along a set of tracks that are installed along both sides of the pool. With this type of mechanical system, you can easily flip a switch or remote control to quickly open or close the cover.

One other possible option that's less expensive is a safety net. However, keep in mind that they don't hold as much weight as a solid or automatic pool cover. While this type of safety net can keep small children and small pets from falling into the pool or from sliding underneath, it may not be durable enough for an adult. In addition, net covers don't prevent dirt and debris from entering the pool during windy weather or storms.