Risky Summer Fun: The Pool and the Trampoline
Summertime brings warmer days, sunshine, and outdoor play. Often, one of the last things on your mind are dangers associated with the season. It might be a surprise, but common backyard playtime favourites, the pool and the trampoline, pose a danger. Homeowners should be aware of the risks and how it may affect home insurance.
Private Pools
A cool dip in your backyard pool is a great way to enjoy the afternoon on a hot day. It’s important to keep in mind, pools come with added liability risk, meaning you may be held legally responsible for injury or negligence if a visitor is hurt on your property. In Canada, over 277 deaths are recorded each year due to drowning, with 32 of them in private pools.
Some safety tips include:
- Adults should always supervise children swimming
- Pool owners should seek first-aid training and know how to perform CPR
- Keep rescue equipment near the pool such as a life preserver and shepherd’s hook
- Install fencing around the pool with self-closing and latching gates
- Install an underwater alarm or pool cover alarm that can be heard inside the house
Trampolines
Bouncing on a trampoline is fun for youth and adults alike! Keep in mind that trampolines present a large risk for injury, as many as 500 injuries per year are recorded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. Additional liability insurance may support you if you are held legally responsible for an injury.
Here are a few recommended best practices for trampoline safety:
- Provide adult supervision when children are jumping
- Don’t allow children to bounce off the trampoline to the ground
- Purchase a trampoline safety net
- Ensure there is a safety pad that covers the trampoline springs, hooks, and frame
- Place the trampoline away from trees, fences, and other structures
Remember to contact your insurance broker to learn more about coverage options to enhance your home insurance and confirm you’re protected. Practicing common safety tips as required by your specific insurance policy will ensure your coverage is not void in an unfortunate situation.
