The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Pool Safely: Simple Steps Save Lives campaign recently released its 2011 summer snapshot of the number of drowning and near-drowning incidents across the country. Since Memorial Day, there have been 48 drownings and 75 near-drowning incidents in 35 states. Driven by the high number of drownings and near-drownings, the CPSC is calling for additional vigilance at pools and spas this summer and beyond.
Common Pool Injuries
Some common pool injuries include:
- Drowning
- Near-drowning and brain injuries
- Slip and falls
- Sunburn
- Broken bones
Ways to Minimize Drowning Risks
Drownings, near-drownings and other swimming pool accidents can be prevented by following certain safety measures. When using a residential or community pool, swimmers should make sure to:
- Learn basic lifesaving techniques
- Learn how to perform CPR on both children and adults
- Never leave a child unattended
- Teach children water safety basics
- Keep children away from pool drains and other entrapment hazards
- Keep a telephone nearby
Legal Responsibilities of Pool Owners
Swimming pool owners are obligated to provide a safe swimming pool area by taking certain precautions and the failure to do so may subject the swimming pool owner to premises liability for any drownings or injuries that occur on the pool owner’s property. Swimming pool owners should take the following safety measures in order to provide a safe swimming environment:
- Install a fence that is at least four feet high around the pool with self-closing and self-latching gates.
- Install pool and gate alarms.
- Ensure that pool drain covers comply with the latest safety standards.
- Maintain pool covers that are in good working order.
- Consider using a surface wave or underwater alarm.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a swimming pool accident, you may be able entitled to compensation from the swimming pool owner or operator through a premises liability or wrongful death lawsuit. Contact the Chicago swimming pool accident attorneys at Ankin Law at (800) 442-6546 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your premises liability or wrongful death claim.
Howard Ankin of Ankin Law (www.ankinlaw.com) handles workers’ compensation and personal injury cases. Mr. Ankin can be reached at (312) 346-8780 and howard@ankinlaw.com.
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