Temperatures are steadily increasing as we get closer to the official start of the summer season. If you’re like many Americans, then you’re likely already making plans for how you’re going to cool off during the hottest days of the year.
Swimming pools are inherently dangerous. It doesn’t matter if you’re at a public pool or one at a friend or neighbor’s house. There are certain risks that all swimming pools have — and they go beyond drowning. You may want to learn more about those dangers before you head out to the pool this summer.
Electrical hazards
Any instances in which the pool’s electrical system is not properly bonded with heavy ground wire may result in a potential electrical shock.
Slip and fall dangers
Swimming pool decks can become very slippery if they are not properly maintained. They should be pressure washed at least once a year to reduce buildup that may make someone more vulnerable to slipping and falling.
Stairs and ladders
A pool’s ladder can become dangerous if it becomes loose. Its stairs can be perilous at night if there aren’t any lights to illuminate them as a swimmer gets in or out of the pool.
Toxic exposure
A person can become seriously ill from poorly maintained pool water. Bacteria that cause potentially life-threatening conditions such as staph infections can multiply in improperly treated water. The combination of too high of a concentration of pool chemicals may result in skin concerns and even poisoning if ingested.
Pump line suction injuries
Every year, many children lose their lives to pool pump lines suction lines. It’s now illegal to have a single suction main drain. Pool owners are required to have dual suction lines.
Pool slides and diving boards
The height of pool slides and diving boards puts users at risk for falling off of them, resulting in serious injury. Diving boards are responsible for as much as 50% of pool-related injuries.
What to do if you suffer injuries at a pool
Countless individuals suffer life-threatening injuries while visiting a pool each year. Some of them can be costly to treat. Fortunately, California premises liability laws may allow you to recover compensation depending on your ability to prove liability or negligence for what happened.
