Rosie on the House

Has been updated: April 6, 2023 at 2:33 PM

Phoenix Children’s Hospital reports that typical medical costs for children injured in non-fatal drowning can cost as much as $250,000 annually in long-term care. Barriers such as pool her fences can cost around $2,000 and can reduce the risk of drowning if used properly. Talk about savings. . . I don’t mean just financial things.

barrier

Barriers to pools, hot tubs, or spas are critical to pool safety.a barrier It keeps you out of danger.of Arizona Drowning Prevention Coalition (DCPA) proposes a fence around the pool with a self-closing, self-latching gate as the primary barrier.

A primary barrier is a device that keeps children (or anyone else who should not be left unattended) out of a pool, spa, or hot tub. A pool fence with a broken gate is not a barrier.

There are many options when it comes to pool fences and other barriers.

Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) offers suggestions for these pool barriers.

fencing – This primary barrier isolates your pool or spa with a minimum 4 foot high enclosure. If the dwelling forms one of the sides and there is a door or window leading from the dwelling to the pool area, one or more additional methods should be used. Fences cannot be climbed, have self-closing and self-latching gates, and must comply with the following requirements: State and/or local requirementsChain links, wood pickets, mesh, or other materials permitted by local codes are optional. Make sure the fence is clear of anything your child can climb over.

automatic, powered safety cover — This primary barrier with an impenetrable cover completely covers the pool and blocks access to the water. The cover is operated electronically or by key independently from all other pool equipment. If relied upon as a primary safety barrier, the cover should be closed and locked whenever the pool or spa is not in use. Covers must meet ASTM F1346 standard performance specifications for safety covers and label requirements for all swimming pool, spa and hot tub covers.

lockable hot tub safety cover — Factory-manufactured hot tubs are usually equipped with lockable safety covers. If relied upon as a primary safety barrier, the cover should be closed and locked whenever the hot tub is not in use.cover must meet ASTM F1346 standard.

manual pool or spa safety cover — An impenetrable covering that completely covers a pool, spa, or hot tub, blocking access to water and considered a second barrier. Covers must meet ASTM F1346 standards.

Automatic closing/automatic latching devices for doors and latching devices for windows – Must be used in conjunction with fences and covers. These devices securely close all doors and windows leading to the pool, spa, and hot tub areas to restrict access for children. Devices include hinge pin replacements, sliding glass door closers, and swing arms.

alarm

as another protective layer, install the security pool detector and alarm. If the barrier is breached, these tools will alert you immediately.

fence gate alarm — Sounds when the fence gate is open.

door, screen or window alarm – When used in conjunction with fences and covers, alarms will sound when doors, screens or windows are opened. Covers must be listed in accordance with UL 2017. The disable switch should be placed at least 48 to 54 inches above the door sill.

infrared detector – This wireless detection alarm will sound when you enter the area around the pool. Options include Ray and Body Energy.

pool alarm – This alarm is placed in the pool and sounds when it detects accidental or unauthorized entry into the water. Alarm types include surface water (wave), pressure wave (acoustic), and electronic monitoring systems.

child alarm – This alarm can be clipped to your child and will sound when your child exceeds a certain distance or is submerged in water. Works with clip-on transmitters with in-home receivers.

These devices should always be used in conjunction with at least one primary barrier. For above-ground pools, always remove the ladder when the pool is not in use.

means

Ann interactive map Provides barrier codes for pools and spas in Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties served by the DCPA. If you live in another county, please contact us directly for pool fence requirements.

DCPA and PHTA The website has many pool safety resources. Other water safety organizations include:

beyond the backyard

While we’re focusing on pools, hot tubs, and spas here, it’s equally important to have a barrier in your home. . A drowning accident can occur in as little as two inches of water. Keep the bathroom door closed and the toilet lid closed. Never leave a bucket of water unattended.

Practice water safety anywhere you have open water, including beaches, lakes, ponds, and your home.

Join Rosie on KTAR News 92.3 FM every Saturday from 8am to 11am. If you have any questions or comments, please email us at info@rosieonthehouse.com. Follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook. For do-it-yourself tips, visit rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona homebuilding and remodeling industry expert since 1988, Rosie Romero is the host of her Rosie on the House radio program on syndicated Saturday mornings. If you have any questions or comments please call us at 888-767-4348.