Your pool is the ultimate in outdoor fun and summertime luxury. But it’s also a giant accident waiting to happen for things that are incapable of making consequence-based decisions and/or breathing underwater. Like your your pets. And your kids. And the neighbor’s kids. And any critters running around the neighborhood that can easily jump into a pool, but not necessarily figure out how to walk out using underwater steps. Seriously, owning a pool is a huge responsibility.
The statistics are mind-boggling. According to the CDC, 10 people drown every day, not counting boat-related incidents. 20 percent of them are children. Five times that number require emergency care, many of whom suffer permanent injuries and disabilities. Drowning is the fifth-leading cause of death and permanent injury in the United States. That said, if someone were to create a list detailing the main benefits of a pool safety cover — which, judging by the headline, we’ve clearly done — safety would be No. 1, so let’s start there.
#1 Safety: Children, animals and drunk adults can get over/through/under fences, and it is irresponsible to rely on non-physical barriers like alarm systems. Modern pool safety covers can prevent virtually all unwanted or accidental intrusions.
#2 Investment protection: Pool safety covers protect your pool as much as they protect your children and intoxicated neighbors. They prevent damage from falling branches or debris from storms.
#3 Lots of Cool Options: Pool safety covers don’t have to be ugly. Choose from a wide range of colors and patterns, as well as features like AutoDrain and push-button technology.
#4 A cover for every pool: Options include mesh and solid vinyl, each of which is available in a number of strengths and gauges, ranging from porous enough to provide for drainage to solid enough to drive a car over — literally.
#5 They’re protected: Pool safety covers come with decades-long warranties that, depending on the brand and model, could outlast the pool itself.