Is Your Pool a Safety Threat? Proper Gates Prevent Accidents

Swimming pools provide a fun source of relaxation and a refreshing oasis from the heat in warmer months.  Unfortunately, they also present a risk of accidental drowning, particularly for small children.  Each year, nearly 300 children under the age of five drown in residential pools, with over 4,000 children in the same age group suffering injuries as a result of water submersion accidents.  In states that enjoy plenty of warm weather, like Arizona, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death around the home for young children. These incidents are particularly tragic given their preventable nature: the CDC cites a lack of proper barriers around pools as one of the primary factors influencing the risk of drowning.

When it comes to securing a pool area to prevent the unsupervised entry of children, some methods promise a higher degree of safety than others.  Arizona law requires gates to be self-closing, include a self-latching mechanism, and open outwards from the pool area to prevent children from entering by pushing on the gate.  Unless the pool gate is secured by a padlock or similar mechanism, the lock should be at least 54 inches above the ground.  There should be no handholds, footholds, or objects around the gate that could help a child climb over it, and the gate should contain no openings through which an object four or more inches in diameter could pass.  While the importance of a properly working, legally compliant pool gate cannot be understated, constant adult supervision of children is the single most effective way to prevent drowning.

At DCS Pool Barriers, we have been designing, manufacturing, and installing pool gates using only materials of the highest quality for over a decade.  Upon installation, we ensure that all component parts, including hinges and locks, are functioning safely and are in compliance with local building codes.  Our years of experience combine with the high caliber of our products to ensure that your pool area retains its aesthetic appeal while substantially reducing the risk of tragic accidents.  Call us today for a free estimate on a safe, functional, and beautiful wrought iron gate to secure your pool area. 623.825.7700.