Deck Equipment
Almost all pools have deck
equipment. Diving boards, ladders, hand rails, sliding boards make your pool more
enjoyable and safer. Let’s talk about some of the different types of deck equipment.
Just about all pools have some
type of pool ladder
or
pool steps. Almost all swimming pool ladders are removable. On an in-ground installation, there is usually a
bolt or some type of anchor that can be tightened or loosened to install or remove a
swimming pool ladder. Above ground pools have usually just an A-frame ladder that can be
folded and stored. It is important that the ladders do not damage the pool walls or floor.
Rubber pads and
bumpers must be inspected every year and
replaced when necessary. If a step or
ladder tread is broken or cracked,
replace it immediately. For the safety of your
guests and family always make sure ladders are in good condition.
Diving Boards and Diving Stands
The most fun you can have at
your pool can be jumping off your diving board. It is also the most dangerous piece of
pool equipment in the back yard. Diving boards need to be secure and in good operating
condition. No cracks, loose hardware, or slick surfaces. Diving boards account for many
backyard accidents. “Drinking and Diving” accidents account for 60% of those
accidents. Do not allow “Drinking and Diving.” Not that diving boards are all
taboo. One of the best pool safety features of all is a properly installed, quality diving
board. Last year there were more than one billion dives from diving boards at residential
in-ground swimming pools, and none resulted in serious accident or injury when pools met
the ANSI/NSPI-5
Standard. This safety record has been ongoing for a number of years. When you see a
defect in your diving board, fix it immediately. Most of the time, this means replacement.
There are also resurfacing kits available to resurface the board if it looses its anti
skid surface.
Swimming Pool Slides
Quickly replacing diving boards
across the country, pool slides are popping up all over the place. With new designs and
colors that will not only be safer than a diving board, but will enhance the looks of the
back yard. Most pool slides have a water connection that needs a supply line from the pool
return or the filter system. There are also shorter, smaller slides that do not require a
source of water. Some slides look like rock formations. Some slides look like tubes. Some
slides look like regular sliding boards. The most important thing is safety. Sliding
boards MUST me installed per manufactures specifications. Do not allow any horseplay, or
piling on. Never try to go “up” a sliding board, and
never stand on a sliding board.
Always look before you slide. One person at a time on your sliding board
is the best rule to have. And as always,
never leave unsupervised children alone in the pool area. |
