Pool Owners and Liability

August 24, 2012 (Press-News.org) Pools provide a relaxing escape from the heat and bring enjoyment to many in the summertime. It is necessary to consider, however, that these same sources of enjoyment can be a source of danger to a young child.

Drowning and other pool-related injuries prove to significantly impact children under the age of 14. Necessary precautions need to be taken to protect both children from injury and property owners from liability in these circumstances.

Statistics

Sadly, each year approximately 390 children under the age of 14 drown in pools, and drowning proves to be the age group's second leading cause of death, according to an article by My San Antonio. Kathleen Reilly of Pool Safety notes that approximately 70 percent of all drowning incidents take place in residential pools, with children between the ages of one and four are the most at risk.

These facts are disheartening, but many drowning tragedies can be prevented when the correct precautions are taken.

Ways to Increase Safety

A simple way to increase safety is to place a fence around the pool area, complete with locks. This prevents very young children from entering when supervision is not available. Pool toys should also be out of sight; when a child sees a toy they may think of it as an invitation to swim. Pool owners can also install alarms around the pool to warn of children entering the pool area.

Liability Issues

When an accident or injury occurs on the property of another, an injured party is able to seek action against the property owner when they can show a proper standard of care was not taken. Injured parties may be able to collect damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other various compensations tied to the injury.

Injured parties suspecting negligence should contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss the situation and discuss the possibility of taking legal action.

Article provided by Reed & Terry
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