shorttermrentalpoolsafety.com

1. General Safety

• Provide a first aid kit accessible and visible near the pool/spa area.
• Post emergency contact numbers, including local hospital, nearby pharmacy, and pool maintenance contact, clearly visible by the pool/spa.
• Regularly check for and repair any sharp edges or broken tiles around the pool/spa area.
• Make sure there's adequate lighting around the pool/spa, especially if guests might use it after dark.

2. Fencing and Gates

• Install a self-closing, self-latching gate that's out of reach of small children.
• Ensure the fence is at least 4 feet high all around the pool/spa.
• Regularly inspect and repair any gaps, holes, or damage to the fence or gate.

3. Alarms and Sensors

• Install pool alarms that sound if someone enters the water unexpectedly.
• Consider door alarms for any house doors leading to the pool/spa area.
• Check alarms regularly to ensure they're functional and have fresh batteries.

4. Supervision and Access

• Clearly communicate to guests that children should never be left unattended near or in the pool/spa.
• Provide pool/spa rules and post them visibly near the area.
• Consider installing a security camera (make sure to notify guests about its presence for privacy reasons).

5. Equipment and Maintenance

• Regularly check and clean pool/spa drains to prevent entrapment.
• Make sure drain covers are compliant with safety standards to avoid suction entrapment.
• Keep pool/spa chemicals locked away and out of reach of children.
• Regularly monitor the pool/spa's pH and chlorine levels to ensure safe swimming conditions.

6. Floatation Devices and Toys

• Provide life vests or floatation devices, but also inform guests that these are not a replacement for supervision.
• Regularly inspect any provided floatation devices for wear and tear.
• Discourage the use of air-filled "swimmies" or arm floaties as they are not safety devices.

7. Education and Information

• Provide guests with information on the dangers of pool/spa drains.
• Offer guests a basic primer on CPR or recommend a local class or online resource.
• Inform guests about the dangers of drinking alcohol while using the pool/spa.

8. Spa-specific Safety

• Post a maximum temperature for the spa (typically not more than 104°F or 40°C).
• Warn guests about the risks of staying in the spa for prolonged periods.
• Provide a timer or alarm to remind guests to take breaks when using the spa.
• Recommend that pregnant women consult a doctor before using the spa.

9. Additional Amenities

• If you provide slides, diving boards, or other pool/spa amenities, regularly inspect them for safety.
• Clearly post the pool's depth and warn against diving in shallow areas.

10. Guest Communication

• Have guests acknowledge the pool/spa rules and safety guidelines upon check-in.
• Provide a welcome packet or digital guide that reiterates pool/spa safety tips.

By adhering to this checklist, vacation rental owners can provide a safer environment for their guests and potentially reduce the risk of accidents or incidents related to the pool and spa.