Owning a pool is a dream come true for many people, but it also presents a hazard to neighborhood children, pets, and guests. While your homeowners insurance policy will likely cover the costs of any accidents, those with pools will usually pay higher premiums to compensate for the additional risk. To help you prevent accidents over the summer, here are some ways to protect your family and those around you when you have a pool.

How to Stay Safe When You Have a Pool

1. Supervise Children

It only takes a few moments for a child to drown, so never leave them unattended around a pool. If you need to go into the house or turn your back for a moment, ask someone else to watch the little ones or have them step out of the pool until you return.

2. Install a Fence

Swimming pools are likely to attract children who might be too young to understand the concept of trespassing. If a child enters your swimming pool and is injured, the attractive nuisance doctrine allows the family to file a claim against your homeowners insurance policy. Installing a fence around your yard and keeping the gate locked at all times so curious children aren’t drawn to it will lower your premiums and prevent liability.

3. Increase Your Liability Coverage

If damages related to an accident exceed the limits of your homeowners insurance policy, the plaintiffs may be able to come after you to demand additional compensation. To protect your finances and assets, most insurance agents recommend increasing your liability coverage to at least $500,000 if you have a pool.
 

Since 1876, Pella Mutual Insurance Company has been dedicated to providing affordable protection and excellent customer service to homeowners throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Since the company is owned by policyholders, you can be sure they’ll always do what’s right for you. Visit their website for more information on their products and services, follow their Facebook for news and updates, or call (715) 754-5039 to request an agent for your free homeowners insurance quote.