Own a Pool? Get the Right Homeowners Insurance in Chandler AZ

July 22-29 was the Pool Safely campaign, promoted in part by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). According to the CPSC, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages five and under.  Young children in Chandler AZ can drown in only a few inches of water in less than thirty seconds. The Pool Safely campaign urges parents and pool owners to make sure that their pools are safe and that they have taken basic safety precautions.

Recommended pool safety measures include:

• Installing  a fence at least four feet tall with self closing gates around the pool.
• Installing lockable safety covers on spas. Keep all pools and spa covers in good working condition.
• Making sure that every pool and spa has VGB compliant drain covers.
• Using surface waves or underwater alarms.
• Installing alarms on doors and windows that lead to the pool area.
• Limiting alcohol use around the pool.
• Regularly checking the pool area for items like glass bottles, toys, or other items that could cause an accident.
• Keep equipment such as life rings, floats, or a reach pole quickly and easily accessible in case of an emergency.
• Learn how to perform both child and adult CPR.  Take refresher courses as necessary to keep those skills up to date.

Parents should also supervise children closely around pools. Teach young children to swim and enforce basic pool safety rules. Never leave a child alone in a pool or spa, even for only a few moments.  Don't leave flotation devices, balls, or other toys floating in the pool that could tempt young children to reach for them and possibly fall in. Keep a phone close by the pool and post emergency numbers nearby. If a child goes missing always remember to check the pool first--including looking on the bottom of the pool.

If you have a pool, make sure that your home insurance in Chandler AZ, provides adequate coverage.  The Insurance Information Institute says that homeowners who own pools may need between $300,000 and $500,000 in liability coverage.  Typical Chandler AZ homeowners policies only provide up to $100,000 in liability coverage.  Pool owners may also want to consider umbrella policies which provide up to $1 million of liability coverage for an additional $200-$300 annual premium.

Chandler, AZ homeowners may also need sufficient insurance to cover replacing the pool if it is damaged, especially if it is an expensive in-ground type pool. Pool furniture also needs to be included in insurance coverage. 

If you have a pool or are considering installing one, contact your insurance agent to discuss your coverage. Pools are considered an "attractive nuisance," and homeowners can be held liable if someone is injured in their pool, even if that person was there without the homeowner's permission. Taking appropriate safety precautions and making sure you have adequate Chandler, AZ insurance coverage can help you make sure that your pool is a fun way to stay cool this summer.