You may be ready for summer, but is your backyard? Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or you’ve been doing this for years, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure the right safety measures are in place. Here are some Pool safety tips to keep in mind.

Install Proper Pool Barriers

A pool fence is your first line of defense. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends a four-sided isolation fence at least four feet high that completely separates the pool from the house and yard. Key features to look for:

• Self-closing, self-latching gates that open away from the pool
• Vertical slats no more than four inches apart so small children can’t squeeze through
• No footholds or handholds on the outside that a child could climb

If your pool is attached to the house, make sure every door leading to the pool area has a door alarm or safety lock placed out of reach of young children.

Keep Life-Saving Equipment Accessible

Every pool area should have safety equipment within arm’s reach at all times. At minimum, keep these on hand:

• A U.S. Coast Guard–approved life ring or reaching pole mounted near the pool
• A fully charged phone for emergencies
• A basic first-aid kit stored nearby

If you have young children or non-swimmers in the household, personal flotation devices (PFDs) designed for their age and weight are a smart investment, not just pool noodles and arm floaties, which are not safety devices.

Designate a Water Watcher

Drowning can happen quietly and quickly, often in less than two minutes for young children, and without splashing or yelling. During any pool gathering, designate one adult as the “water watcher” whose only job is watching the pool. Rotate the role every 15–20 minutes so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Learn CPR

This one can’t be overstated: every adult in your household should know how to perform CPR. The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association both offer in-person and online certification courses. In an emergency, knowing CPR while you wait for first responders could be the difference that matters most.

Don’t Overlook the Broader Backyard

Pool safety is critical, but the rest of your backyard deserves attention too. Here’s a quick checklist for families:

• Grills: Keep grills at least 10 feet from your home or any structure, and never leave them unattended with children nearby
• Trampolines: If you have one, use a safety net enclosure and limit the number of jumpers at a time (most injuries happen from collisions, not falls)
• Outdoor play equipment: Inspect swings, slides, and climbing structures at the start of each season for rust, sharp edges, or loose hardware
• Lawn chemicals and tools: Store fertilizers, pesticides, and power tools in a locked shed or cabinet out of children’s reach
• Lighting: Make sure pathways, steps, and pool edges are well-lit for evening use

Enjoy This Summer Safely In A New Hakes Brothers Home

A safe backyard is the foundation for a great summer. Put these tips to use and you won’t have to think twice, you’ll just get to enjoy it. If you’re looking for a new home in Kansas City, El Paso, Albuquerque, or beyond, Hakes Brothers has communities ready for you, many with homes available right now. And if a community pool is on your wish list, many of the places we build have that, too. (Including La Cima in San Marcos, Texas, where we will be selling soon.) Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a tour!