5 Safety Features of an Inground Pool in Portsmouth & Newport RI Areas

Millions of homeowners across America either celebrate the pools they already own or dream about the pools they want. The backyard pool can serve many purposes: a place for kids to splash and play, an inspirational place for exercise, or a place for idyllic relaxation. Regardless of the intention of the owner or the purpose of the pool, safety is always the primary concern. Whether the swimmers are young or old and of any abilities, there are specific parts of the pool that are designed with safety in mind. Here are five safety features of an inground pool in Newport and Portsmouth, RI areas. 

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Non-Slip Pavers

The pool deck and the surrounding patio or walkways are some of the most accident-prone areas of a backyard and home. The water that splashes up on the pool deck can present a slipping hazard. By installing non-slip pavers on any areas in close proximity to the pool and/or hot tub, you can help drastically reduce risk and help keep your pool a safer area for your loved ones.

Pool Entry and Exit

Many pool accidents happen when people are getting in or out of the water. The same non-slip pavers will help somewhat, but it’s also important to consider how the pool is entered: pool steps or ladders won’t necessarily have the same non-slip features as your pool surround. A good solution is a Baja shelf, which is a gradual entry feature that allows pool-goers ease of entry and exit. The gradual incline mimics the incredible beaches of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. Baja shelves offer a shallow end of the pool for toddlers and elderly to play and relax safely. A rickety, slippery, shin-bashing ladder on the wall of the pool simply won’t have the same level of security as a gradual Baja shelf.

Attractive Fencing

Many homeowners want to enjoy a pool safely, and a fence is of paramount importance if you have children or pets. Preventing them from going into the pool can be a full-time job unless there’s a climb-proof fence around the pool deck and a gate with a sturdy latch that kids can’t open. This simple solution will help keep the pets and little ones safe without constant vigilance. Pool fencing can even be Plexiglas if you don’t want a solid-looking fence. As the kids grow up, the fence could be removed entirely. With so many fencing options, you’re sure to find one to match the general aesthetic of your home and outdoor living space. 

Pool Lighting

Keeping the pool area well illuminated at night is essential for backyard safety. Submersible lights illuminate the water from below. This type of lighting not only makes the pool much brighter but offers an ethereal blue glow that indirectly lights the surrounding area. It also causes any ripples to dance on vertical surfaces nearby, adding drama to nighttime poolside fun. 

Pool Deck Lighting

The pool deck and all walkway and patio surfaces should be illuminated for safety. Many backyards still feature an old-school single large floodlight that illuminates the area. This single source of light provides intense glares in one direction and harsh shadows in another, providing tripping hazards in any areas where someone can’t see clearly. To mitigate both of these issues, modern landscape lights should be installed and angled towards the ground to properly illuminate every walking surface near the pool.

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