Pool Safety Checklist

Walk the perimeter for visible gaps, loose sections or damage. Move furniture and other climbing aids away. Restrict access and arrange repair if the barrier is compromised.

Check that each gate closes and latches as its manufacturer specifies. Never prop it open. Keep the pool inaccessible if it fails.

Test alarms according to their instructions and address faults. An alarm adds protection; it does not replace barriers or a supervising adult.

Check visible condition and operation according to the manual. Keep controls away from children. A floating or seasonal cover is not automatically a safety cover; never walk on a cover.

When swimming ends, secure, lock or remove access steps or ladders as the installation allows. Keep access controlled whenever no adult is supervising.

Agree who is actively watching and explicitly hand over responsibility before that adult leaves. Keep young children and weak swimmers within appropriate close supervision; swim lessons and alarms do not remove the need to watch.

Discuss each swimmer's abilities, supervision needs and safe use of the pool. Keep children away from drains; do not permit breath-holding contests or diving where the pool is not designed for it.

Make sure the supervising adult can call emergency services immediately and give the exact location. Know how responders can reach the pool.

Keep appropriate reaching or throwing equipment accessible and know its use. In an emergency call for help; do not enter the water for a rescue beyond your training.

Identify adults with current CPR training and arrange training or renewal where needed. Review who calls emergency services and follows dispatcher instructions; this checklist does not teach rescue or CPR.

Keep everyone out if a suction-outlet cover is loose, broken or missing. If its condition cannot be assessed safely, arrange professional inspection. Never remove a cover or enter the water to check it.

Do not swim if cloudy water prevents a clear view of the bottom. Resolve the cause before use. Clear-looking water alone does not confirm suitable sanitizer or pH.

Confirm recent water tests meet applicable guidance and product requirements. Follow treatment-label waiting times and retest instructions. Use the weekly maintenance checklist for the detailed testing routine.

Clear trip hazards and check visible steps and handholds for damage. Keep electrical appliances and cords away from the water. Stop use and obtain qualified help for damaged wiring or equipment; do not attempt electrical repairs.

Store chemicals in their original labelled containers in a secure area according to product instructions, inaccessible to children and pets. Never mix chemicals.

Remove enticing toys from the pool area when not in use, check everyone is out, and close and latch gates. Restore installed covers and alarms according to their instructions; secure above-ground access where applicable.