Pool Season Prep: A Safety Checklist for Homeowners & Property Managers

In Arizona, the beginning of springtime means that pool season is just around the corner. However, as time around the pool increases, so does the risk of drowning and other water-related accidents. Whether you’re a homeowner with a backyard pool or a property manager responsible for a shared swimming area, ensuring that your pool area is as safe and secure as possible is essential as the warmer months begin. We’ve compiled the following pool season prep checklist to help you get your pool area in prime condition.

Verify Pool Barrier Compliance

Arizona has adopted strict laws governing pool barriers, with the goal of helping to prevent unsupervised access to the pool—particularly by young children. Sadly, in fact, children between the ages of one and four drown in Arizona at twice the national rate, making secure fencing a critical safety measure. Here are a few keys to ensuring that your property is compliant:

• Fence height and enclosure. Pool fences should be at least five feet high and completely enclose the pool area, with no openings larger than four inches in diameter.
• Self-closing, self-latching gates. Gates should open outward from the pool and feature self-closing, self-latching mechanisms positioned at least 54 inches above the ground in order to prevent small children from reaching them.
• Check local regulations. In addition to state requirements, many cities and towns have additional pool barrier rules, so be sure to confirm compliance with your local ordinances.

Inspect Your Pool Barriers for Damage

Once you’ve confirmed that your pool fences and gates comply with applicable regulations, the next step is to check for any wear and tear that could compromise security. For example:

• Look for rust, corrosion, or structural damage. If your pool fencing shows signs of rust or deterioration, it’s important to repair or replace it before peak swimming season arrives. Galvanized wrought iron fences—our specialty at DCS Pool Barriers—offer extra protection against rust and are a smart investment for long-term durability.
• Test gate latches and hinges. Ensure that your gates close and latch automatically every time—without sticking or requiring extra force. If the latch is broken or slow to close, repairs are probably necessary to maintain safety and compliance.
• Remove climbable objects. Check for items such as furniture, planters, or toys that children could possibly use to climb over the fence.

Ensure Safety Equipment is Ready and Accessible

In addition to having proper pool barriers in place, the following measures can help enhance safety around the pool area:

• Inspect life-saving devices. Life rings, shepherd’s hooks, and first-aid kits should be easily accessible and in good condition in case of an emergency.
• Test pool alarms and covers. If your pool has door alarms, surface alarms, or safety covers, check that they are functioning properly and meet current safety standards.
• Verify proper signage for commercial pools. Apartment complexes, hotels, and HOA-managed pools should have clearly posted safety rules, depth markers, and emergency contact information.

Review and Reinforce Pool Safety Rules

The beginning of pool season is the perfect time to review and reinforce pool safety basics. For example:

• Always assign a water watcher. The most effective way to reduce the risk of drowning is to always designate a responsible, dedicated adult to watch children whenever they are near the water.
• Talk to kids about pool safety. Remind children never to enter the pool area without an adult.
• Encourage swimming lessons and CPR training. For both kids and adults, swimming lessons can be lifesaving, and CPR training ensures that someone is prepared to act in an emergency.

Schedule Pool Barrier Repairs or Upgrades

If your existing pool fence or gate is damaged, outdated, or not up to code, it’s crucial to address these issues before pool season begins. DCS Pool Barriers specializes in:

• New pool fencing and gate design, manufacture, and installation
• Repairs and replacements for rusted or damaged fences
• Upgrades to self-closing, self-latching gates to ensure compliance

 It’s time to get ready for a safe and fun pool season—contact DCS Pool Barriers today to request a free estimate on your pool fencing needs!