Swimming pools are a fantastic addition to any home, providing hours of fun and relaxation for the whole family. However, owning a pool also comes with a significant responsibility to ensure it is safe for everyone who uses it. Many pool owners may be unaware of the specific guidelines and regulations that must be followed to maintain a safe environment. In this blog post, we will explore three critical swimming pool guidelines you may not have known.

Constructing a Safety Barrier

One crucial guideline is ensuring your pool has proper fencing. We recommend that pool fences should be at least 4 feet high and have a self-latching, self-closing gate to prevent unsupervised access, especially by young children. In many provinces and counties, regulations stipulate these requirements to minimize the risk of accidental drownings. Always check with your local authorities to ensure your pool fencing complies with current standards. Additionally, make sure the inground pool company you're working with adheres to fencing regulations.

Surveying With Proper Licensure

Another significant aspect is compliance with construction and placement regulations. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) mandates that in many regions, there are strict guidelines for building a swimming pool. According to Clovered, it is widely recommended that pool owners increase their insurance coverage to at least $500,000. Increasing your insurance coverage can be a good idea in the event of setbacks from property lines, elevation requirements to prevent flood damage, or specific grading issues to manage water runoff. Before breaking ground, make sure to consult local construction codes with your inground pool company and obtain the necessary permits.

Managing Water Quality

Maintaining proper water chemistry and cleanliness is another critical safety requirement. Ensuring the right balance of chemicals, like chlorine and pH levels in the pool, helps prevent the spread of waterborne illnesses and skin irritations. Additionally, keeping the pool clean from debris and regularly checking the filtration system is essential for a healthy swimming environment. Regular testing and adjusting water chemistry is not just a recommendation but often a regulatory requirement in many areas.

Owning a swimming pool is a wonderful luxury, but it comes with specific responsibilities to ensure it is safe and compliant with local standards. While it's okay to have fun and relax by the water, following these guidelines to help protect your family and neighbors is doubly important. For all your pool-building needs, be sure to contact Venture Pools today!