Tips on How to Swim Safely in Your Backyard Pool

By: American Leak Detection | 0 Shares 135 Reads

Experts With American Leak Detection Keep Communities "In the Know" When It Comes to Pool Safety

PALM SPRINGS, CA--(Marketwire - Jun 8, 2011) - As we enter the summer of 2011, American Leak Detection professionals are taking steps to educate their local communities on pool safety. It's only June and there have already been 37 drownings and 38 near-drowning incidents reported by the media across America, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website. That's why the leak safety business is offering tips geared to keep families safe while they enjoy their pools.

"Oftentimes, pool safety is in the back of most people's minds, but it should really be in the forefront of their thoughts when they use pools, especially their own," American Leak Detection CEO and President Bill Palmer said. "Something as simple as knowing where the pool water pump is so that you can quickly turn it off in the event of an emergency can make a world of a difference. As water leak experts, we are more than happy to do our part in helping to keep communities safe when it comes to pool safety."

Palmer says that homeowners should take the following precautionary steps before opening their pools for members of their households and guests:

Check and replace necessary pool parts Replace old flat drain covers and never use a pool or spa with a missing or broken drain cover. Install anti-vortex drain covers to minimize the risk of body and hair entrapment in the suction inlets, and consider installing a Safety Vacuum Release System that will automatically shut off a pump if a blockage is detected, Palmer said.
Make sure it's clean, not green If your pool is green, that likely means the water could contain molds, fungus, larvae, and other contaminants that could make those who use the pool sick.
Be cognizant of recalls and equipment reviews Even by taking all of the proper preventative measures, not knowing if certain parts of your pool are working properly can make your efforts null and void, Palmer said. Be sure to check sites such as CPSC and Consumer Reports regularly for articles on recalls and reviews to ensure that your pool's parts are all in tip top shape.
Call in the professionals Have a professional such as an American Leak Detection specialist regularly inspect your pool or spa. Ask where the electrical cut-off switch is for the pool or spa pump. This area should be marked clearly so that, in an emergency, the water pump can be turned off immediately. In addition, loose or falling tiles and pool deck cracks -- signs that the surrounding ground is being compromised by water and that there is a leak in the pool system -- can cause those using the pool to slip and fall.

When it comes to public pools and spas, residents can rest more assured knowing they are safer because there are certain requirements public places must implement, such as those in accordance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Safety Act of 2007, enforcing safety requirements for public pools and spas.

However, the safety measures of private, personal pools are controlled by the homeowner.

"Residents should make good judgments before opening their pool for members of their family or guests. Some of these good judgments include: putting up a wall or fence at least four feet high around the pool; not allowing unsupervised children in the pool; being sure that at least one person in the household knows cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); not using air-filled swimming aids as a substitute for approved life vests; and keeping rescue equipment, such as life-saving flotation devices, and a telephone by the pool in the event of an emergency," Palmer said.

In addition to providing pool safety inspection services, the specialists at American Leak Detection employ proprietary methods and technology combined with quality equipment to detect hidden pipe leaks behind walls and underground to prevent homes from requiring major home repairs. Since 1974, American Leak Detection technicians have found more than five million leaks in residential and commercial buildings, saving customers millions of dollars, and supporting the company's ongoing commitment to resource protection.

About American Leak Detection

Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Palm Springs, California, ALD is the world leader in the accurate, non-destructive detection of hidden water, sewer and other types of leaks. For the past nine years, ALD has been ranked #1 in Entrepreneur® magazine's "Maintenance Products and Services" franchise sector. In February 2008, The Wall Street Journal named ALD to its list of the top 25 high-performing franchises. ALD is dedicated to water conservation, resource protection and the providing of eco-friendly services.

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