Swimming pools and spa pools are something people dream about having, but when you have one, you soon realize how much responsibility comes with this luxury item. Despite being an enjoyable way to enjoy your property, there are certain risks associated with pools. They can be sources of disease, pests, and tragic accidents. For these reasons it is essential that you have your pool certified. But even day to day, there are things you can do to keep your pool safe, here are some helpful guidelines.

• Safety Equipment: It is easy to get complacent, but accidents happen when you least expect them. Having some safety equipment on hand will make sure that you are able to respond quickly to an emergency. Typical items include a life preserver, and a safety hook. If you have a large pool you might wish to have more than one of these available. Another thing you can do is to make sure that your children have a good understanding of how to use these tools, and you should have a few drills to make sure.

Maintenance: Many accidents occur because pools fall into a state of disrepair. Open drain covers, damaged decking, missing or broken tiles, all can contribute to an accident. A certified inspector will check for signs of damage when you get your inspection. You can locate accredited swimming pool certifiers in Sydney, for a new certification.

• Supervision: The safest pool is a supervised pool. Children do not always have the sense of caution required to be safe around a pool, and they can get into trouble in a hurry. You should never let young children in the pool area unsupervised. Older children who have proven excellent swimming skills still should be watched until they are familiar with the facility.

• Fences: One of the greatest risks of having a pool is having unexpected guests using the pool, and worse, is having children enter the pool area when no one knows they are there. Swimming pool fences save lives and are an excellent defence against unnecessary accidents, and they will help with liability if something does occur.

• Cleanliness: Swimming pools can be a risk to health when they are not properly maintained. When the PH levels and the chlorine are not kept up, it can become a breeding area for pathogens and water born pests. It is a good idea to have a weekly routine for checking your pool or spa. Make a journal, or at the least a checklist, and failing that, you might want to hire a service to maintain the pool for you.

When the temperature climbs, everyone wants to get into the pool. It is a wonderful and healthy way to relax or socialize if all the proper precautions are taken. Have fun, be safe, and enjoy your pool.