Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Checklist - Make your Swimming Pool or Spa Safe
Monday May 26, 2008
The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) offers a checklist of safety measures for pool, spa, and hot tub owners to use in making sure that their installations are as safe as possible. Owners of older pools, spas, and hot tubs are encouraged to have their installation evaluated by an APSP member to learn of new technologies and equipment that can enhance safety.
In addition to supervision, APSP supports the concept of "layers of protection." This means the pool, spa, or hot tub is equipped with several devices to delay unsupervised access or warn of a child's presence. Following are some options for protecting children and preventing accidents:
- Fencing: Isolate the swimming pool with a minimum four-foot-high enclosure.
- Safety Covers: An impenetrable covering that completely covers the pool, spa, or hot tub will prevent access to the water when there is not supervision.
- Alarms: Alarms are available for doors, fences, in pools, and as a clip-on for children. Alarms detect unwanted entrances to your pool, spa, or hot tub.
- Rope and Float Line: Place these across the pool to alert swimmers to the separation of the deep end from the shallow end of the pool.
- Rescue Equipment: Equipment such as a life ring and shepherd's hook should be placed near the pool in an easily accessible spot.
- Posted Emergency Information: Post all CPR, other emergency information, and warning signs, as well as the emergency telephone number - 911 - near the pool, spa, or hot tub.
- Outside Telephone: Be sure to have a telephone in case you need to summon help.


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