The heat is here, the first day of summer is tomorrow (June 21) and owners and their guests are flocking to the association’s pool… pool safety starts with you. It goes without saying; the importance of pool safety is something that we can’t stress enough.

What to say to that person who likes to “prop open” the pool gate?

PLEASE close the gate! For safety and liability reasons, your board should take a proactive stance regarding the improper propping open of a gate. If your board has not already done so, your board should consider adopting and enforcing a rule stating that propping open the pool gate is prohibited – no excuses for leaving the gate open! The association should notify homeowners and all vendors (i.e. pool companies/landscapers who might prop a gate open) of the association’s rules and pool policy prohibiting propping open of a gate — in writing (i.e. letters, newsletters, etc.).

What to do today?

Go check your association’s pool gate to confirm that it is a self-closing gate and the lock is high enough that a young child cannot reach it without assistance from an adult.

What’s that beeping sound?

That’s the alarm notifying us that the pool gate is open! We suggest that the board research an alternative to deter owners and vendors from propping open the pool gate. An effective method is to install a gate alarm. When attached to the gate, the alarm creates a loud beeping noise if the gate is propped open.

It is important to point out that an alarm can be an annoyance to owners living near the pool so the board will need to weigh the pros and cons of a gate alarm vs how serious this issue is at your association.

What to say to that owner that keeps violating pool rules?

PLEASE follow the rules! If the association’s CC&Rs allow the board to revoke residents’ common area pool privileges for violations of the rules and regulations, our firm suggests that the board revoke pool privileges for violations of pool safety rule(s).

What to handout to your members?

This, right HERE! This American Red Cross handout has a complete list of safety guidelines that your board, members and their guests should review.

Some final [important] thoughts..

Put serious thought about the signs that are posted at your pool…

  • No Lifeguard on Duty
  • No Diving
  • CPR Instructions
  • In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1
  • Please keep gate closed

Finally, make sure the address/location of the pool is POSTED in an obvious location on the pool-deck. In the unfortunate event that a patron has to call 9-1-1, they will need to be able to provide authorities with the address of the pool.

Have a great summer and be safe!