When the summer sun is beating down and the kids are full of energy, a trip to the pool can be a refreshing break. Swimming is great exercise and a time to hang out with friends. Many HOA communities have a swimming pool as part of the amenities provided for homeowners, and your HOA dues help pay for the upkeep. Why not take advantage of this resource and make the most of your time at the pool?
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to pools is safety. You want to ensure that your family is staying safe and knows the rules when it comes to being in and around the water.
- Keep watch. Many neighborhood pools do not have a lifeguard on duty, though there are some that do. In either case, you should still be paying attention to what your children are doing and making sure they are safe. Avoid getting too wrapped up in your book, music, or electronic devices that you’re not aware of what’s going on around you. Swimmers can go from being fine to struggling very quickly.
- Know CPR. It’s never a bad idea to be trained in CPR or first aid. Should an emergency occur, you will be ready to respond and potentially save a life. These skills can be beneficial not only at the pool but out in the community as well.
- Invest in swim lessons. Start your children in swim lessons when they are young so they become more familiar with being in the water and develop proper skills. This can add another level of safety. Make sure that young children are wearing flotation devices to support them in staying upright and safer in the water, especially if they are not strong swimmers yet.
- Follow the rules. The rules are there for your protection. Educate your children on the rules of the pool as well as your own expectations. Enforce consequences if they are not following the rules so that they understand the importance and that you value their safety.
- Report concerns. If you have concerns about the pool or surrounding areas, report them to your HOA. They should be conducting regular upkeep of the pool and maintaining the features, fencing, pool deck, and other areas.
For further safety, consider talking to your HOA about the possibility of hiring a lifeguard or arranging for swim lessons for the neighborhood. There is no harm in speaking up and you may find that others are in agreement. Together with the HOA board, you can make the pool a safer and more enjoyable place for everyone.