Don’t Forget the Pool Area
As the weather warms up and swimming season starts picking up, it’s easy to focus on one thing:
Does the pool water look good?
But getting your pool ready for the warmer months isn’t just about clean, sparkling water. The area around your pool deserves a quick check too.
Before the kids, visitors and entertaining start rolling in, take a few minutes to look around your pool area and make sure everything is ready for a safe and enjoyable swimming season.
5 Things to Check Around Your Pool
1. Check your pool gates and latches
Your pool gate is one of the most important safety features around your pool.
Check that your gate is self-closing and self-latching every time it opens. Don’t rely on someone remembering to close it behind them.
It’s also worth checking that nothing is stopping the gate from closing properly and that the latch is working as it should.
If you’re unsure whether your pool barrier is compliant or working correctly, it’s worth getting it checked by a qualified professional.
2. Check your pool safety equipment and signs
Make sure your pool safety equipment is easy to access and hasn’t been moved, damaged or hidden away behind other equipment.
This is one of those things you don’t want to be searching for when you actually need it.
It’s also worth checking that your required pool safety signage is still in place and clearly visible.
Missing a safety sign? We have pool safety signs available in-store at Kirratech, ready to grab when you need one.
3. Give your pool surrounds a once-over
The area around your pool can become a bit of a dumping ground, especially when the pool isn’t being used regularly.
Before swimming season gets into full swing, clear away clutter, toys, equipment and anything else that could become a trip hazard.
Take a look at the pool surface too. Keep surrounding areas clean and check that surfaces remain suitable and non-slip.
A tidy pool area isn’t just nicer to look at — it can also help reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls.
4. Check where your pool toys and equipment are stored
Pool toys, cleaning equipment and other pool accessories can quickly take over the pool area.
When they’re not being used, store them safely out of the way.
And there’s one pool toy mistake that’s particularly easy to make: leaving toys or floating equipment over the skimmer.
Pool toys can restrict water flow into the skimmer and potentially contribute to suction or circulation problems.
So before you jump in, make sure the skimmer has a clear path to do its job.
5. Make the pool area ready for visitors
If you’re expecting family, friends or plenty of backyard entertaining this swimming season, think about the pool area from their perspective.
Is the area clear and easy to move around?
Are safety features easy to find?
Are toys and equipment stored safely?
Is there somewhere suitable to sit or get out of the sun?
And, particularly here in Far North Queensland, don’t forget just how intense that sun can be. Providing adequate shade can make a big difference when you’re spending time around the pool.
Don’t Just Check the Water
A clean, balanced pool is important, but there’s more to getting your pool ready for swimming season than what’s happening in the water.
Taking a few minutes to check the pool area, safety equipment, gates, surrounds and storage can help make your backyard safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
And it’s much easier to find a problem now than when you’ve got a backyard full of kids, guests and swimmers waiting to get in.
Because the only thing we want making a splash is the pool.
Need Help Getting Your Pool Ready?
From regular pool maintenance and water testing to equipment servicing and repairs, Kirratech Pool Services can help get your pool ready for the swimming season.
We service pools across Cairns and surrounding suburbs, and our shop also stocks a range of pool products, chemicals and safety equipment.
If you’re getting the pool ready for the warmer months and aren’t sure where to start, get in touch with the Kirratech team.
A pool of knowledge… Experience the difference.
