We’re so thankful to have a few restrictions lifted this summer! We’ve been in quarantine for so long that we’re all excited to see the people we love and care about. If you are lucky enough to have a swimming pool in your backyard, pool parties are a great way to enjoy the summer with family and friends. But before we get too excited, let’s also remember to exercise caution around possible hazards that come with the responsibility of owning a pool.
Swimming pools can increase your home insurance premiums because of the added cost on the rebuild value. On top of that, pools also come with an increased liability for the homeowner. Pools can cause injury, harm, and/or (God forbid!) death to others and the homeowner would be held liable, which is why you must inform your broker if you have a pool.
To keep you and your loved ones safe from accidents and also avoid liability claims, make sure to follow these safety measures.
1. Install a fence with the recommended height of at least 1.2 metres and keep it locked when not in use. The Government of Toronto requires homeowners to keep their pool fence locked at all times when the pool is not in use.
2. Make sure children in or around the pool are always supervised by an adult.
3. Regularly check to ensure that diving boards and pumps are always in good condition.
4. Teach kids safety measures such staying away from drains and always having a buddy to swim with.
5. Always have floatation devices and a first aid kit on standby for emergency purposes.
6. Do not allow drinking alcohol in or around the pool.
7. Do not run around the pool.
8. Make sure no one dives at the shallow end of your pool.
9. Inform your guests, especially the kids, if your pool is not safe for diving.
10. Empty out portable kiddie pools when not in use.
11. Ask guests to follow these guidelines or post it by the pool to ensure their safety.
It is important that your guests are informed of pool safety measures because if they get into an accident in your home, you will be held liable. Aside from lowering the risk of injury and property damage, keeping your pool safe from accidents will also help avoid unnecessary insurance claims that could lead to increased premiums. If you have questions about the extent of your swimming pool coverage or are shopping around for a home insurance policy, you may contact one of our licensed PrimeService brokers at 905-886-7277.