Thousands of homeowners in and around Atlanta have swimming pools or hot tubs on their property. While these amenities can significantly increase property value and can provide hours of entertainment and relaxation, they can also pose a risk of serious injury to people who use them. This is particularly true for young children who may try and use them without authorization from the person who owns the property. For example, “pool hopping” is a dangerous pastime that can result in serious injury to children or teenagers and legal liability for pool owners.
In many cases, pool owners can be held liable for injuries that people sustain in their pools, even if those injured were not invited guests. As a result, it is important for pool owners and guests alike to take steps to reduce the risk of injury when swimming or laying by the pool. In the unfortunate event that an injury does occur, victims should be sure to discuss their options with an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
HOW CAN POOL OWNERS PREVENT ACCIDENTAL INJURIES?
If you have a pool or hot tub at your residence, it is important that you regularly ask yourself the following questions and address any issues:
Do you have an appropriately high fence or other barrier around the full perimeter of your spa or pool? Are their any spaces, holes, or weaknesses in your barrier that would allow a child to enter the pool area unsupervised?
Do you have to enter the pool through a door or gate that has self-closing and self-latching mechanisms? Are the latches high enough to be out of a child’s reach?
Do you have working alarms on the door or gate to your pool area?
Are all drain covers anti-entrapment and in full compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act?
Do you have any objects or debris on the pool decks that may cause someone to trip and fall?
Are the surfaces around the pool slippery or worn?
Are the surfaces or edges inside the pool too rough so that they may cause injury?
Does everyone who is old enough in your family know how to swim?
Have you spoken to your children and any neighborhood children about pool safety?
Do you or someone else in your family know CPR?
Do you have your pool regularly inspected by a qualified and trained inspector to ensure it is properly maintained?
Being a residential pool or hot tub owner can be rewarding, but is also a huge responsibility as it is your legal duty to keep the premises safe for any swimmers. You never want to risk injury to your family, neighbors, or others because your pool was not safe.
For more information about swimming pool safety, follow the source link below.
