Don’t Get Soaked by Premises Liability Lawsuits as You Lounge by Your Pool

Hot tubs and swimming pools are fabulous features to have at home along the Front Range. However, homeowners can end up in hot water with these attractive nuisances if they don’t take the proper safety precautions to prevent injuries to guests and trespassers. Before you buy a pool or install a hot tub, taking the following actions can help protect your friends and family from injury, and yourself against a premises liability claim in Colorado.

• Install Barriers and Gates. Your barrier should deny easy access to your pool or hot tub area. All gates should be locked, and you should post signs warning intruders not to trespass onto the property.
• Illuminate the Pool or Hot Tub. You should install motion-activated lights around your pool or hot tub. This will deter intruders from entering during the evening hours. Also, proper illumination will protect your invited guests against accidental slips, trips, and falls.
• Install and Maintain Non-Slip Flooring. Make sure that non-slip materials surround your pool or hot tub area. If cracks or other damage occur, repair the damage before allowing anyone to use the pool.
• Supervise the Pool or Hot Tub. Children and guests should never be allowed to use the pool unsupervised. This should be a steadfast rule that you never bend.
• Maintain Your Equipment. Ensure that all lights, wiring, filters, and safety aids are fully functional before using the pool or hot tub.
• Watch Chemicals Closely. Adding too much chlorine or other water cleaning chemicals can cause chemical burns and toxic exposures. Precisely follow the application instructions of any chemical you introduce into the water.
• Get CPR Certified. Anyone who owns a pool must be prepared for a drowning event. CPR certification helps protect your loved ones from serious injury or death.
• Use the Cover. Children, wildlife, and unwanted guests find it much more difficult to take an evening swim when a pool cover or hot tub cover is attached and properly secured.
• Install a Security System. Motion-activated alarms, coupled with remotely monitored cameras can send alerts to your phone, email, or security company whenever anyone enters the pool or hot tub area.

Contact Sloat, Nicholson, & Hoover, P.C. at (303) 447-1144 to learn more about premises liability with swimming pools in Colorado. It is our pleasure to answer your questions and help you enjoy a safe summer free of injury.