Year-Round Pool Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Keeping your pool safe isn’t just a summer task - it’s something every homeowner needs to stay on top of throughout the year. From seasonal hazards to equipment checks and water quality, safety involves much more than just a locked gate. Let’s break down the steps you can take to keep your pool area secure every month of the year.

Why Pool Safety Isn’t Just for Summer

It’s easy to let your guard down when the pool isn’t being used as often, but safety risks don’t disappear in the fall or winter. Leaves can clog drains, water chemistry can go out of balance, and unsecured covers can collapse under weight.

Year-round safety helps you:

• Prevent accidents involving kids, pets, or guests.

• Avoid expensive equipment damage.

• Reduce the risk of illness from poor water quality.

• Maintain a well-functioning, clean pool.

  
  

Is Your Pool Area Properly Secured?

The first thing to assess is access. Even the best-maintained pool isn’t safe if children or pets can wander unsupervised.

What to check:

• A four-sided fence that separates the pool from the yard and house.

• A self-closing, self-latching gate.

• No furniture, plants, or objects near the fence that can be used to climb over.

Adding these barriers significantly reduces the chances of an accident, especially for younger children.

Are You Using the Right Pool Cover?

A quality safety cover does more than just keep leaves out. It acts as a protective barrier against falls when the pool isn't in use.

Look for covers that are:

• Made of mesh or solid vinyl.

• Anchored securely to your pool deck.

• ASTM-rated for safety.

• Tight enough to prevent sagging if something falls on it.

If you’re unsure which cover is best, talk to a pool care professional for guidance based on your pool type and local climate.

Could Technology Help You Monitor Your Pool Better?

Modern tech gives pool owners extra peace of mind. Even if you’re not outside watching, these tools help keep your pool area safe.

Options to consider:

• Pool alarms that detect movement in the water.

• Gate and door alarms for any pool entrances.

• Wearable water sensors for kids or pets.

• Security cameras with real-time alerts.

While technology shouldn’t replace supervision, it can be a powerful support tool especially when used in combination.

When Was the Last Time You Checked Your Drain Covers?

Drain suction can be dangerous if covers are damaged or missing. In fact, faulty drains have caused serious injuries and even drownings.

Here’s what to do:

• Inspect covers regularly for cracks or loosened screws.

• Replace any outdated models with ones that meet current safety standards.

• Have a technician check your pool’s suction system annually.

  
  

  This is a small step that can prevent a serious hazard.

  
  

Are You Keeping the Water Chemistry in Balance?

Water that’s out of balance isn’t just hard on your pool equipment—it can be harmful to swimmers. Whether your pool is open or closed for the season, chemistry still matters.

Make sure to test for:

• Chlorine levels (to control bacteria)

• pH balance (to prevent irritation and support chlorine)

• Alkalinity and calcium hardness (to protect your pool surfaces and systems)

We recommend weekly testing during swim season and at least monthly during off-season months. Professional pool care can help you stay consistent year-round.

Related Read: Water Testing and Balancing

What About Safety During the Off-Season?

Even if you’re not using your pool in colder months, it still needs to be secured and maintained.

Off-season tips:

• Keep your safety cover in place and properly tensioned.

• Store ladders or steps if removable.

• Clear debris from the cover regularly.

• Check that fencing and gates are still functioning.

• Monitor the water level and equipment if you're in a freeze-prone area.

Skipping these steps can lead to big problems when swim season returns.

Explore: Seasonal Preparation Services

Have the Kids Learned How to Swim?

Swimming is one of the best safety tools you can give your child. Even basic skills like floating or treading water can make a huge difference in an emergency.

Look for lessons that teach:

• Safe pool entry and exit.

• Breath control.

• Floating and basic strokes.

• Water confidence and safety awareness.

Lessons aren’t a replacement for adult supervision—but they are a valuable layer of safety.

FAQs

Should I keep my fence locked even in the winter?

Yes. Accidents can still happen when pools are closed. Fences and gates should always be secure, even during the off-season.

How often should I test the pool water?

What kind of alarm is best for my pool?

Can I install a pool cover myself?

Do you offer year-round maintenance?