June 3rd, 2024
California is home to 1.3 million swimming pools, and about 15,000 new ones are added annually.
Despite their appeal on hot days, pools can become dangerous if they’re not well-maintained or lack proper supervision and safety measures. Injuries can happen quickly and have serious consequences, such as head trauma or drowning.
Knowing the dangers of pools and how to prevent accidents can help you have a safe, enjoyable summer. If you’re hurt in a swimming pool accident, the California pool accident lawyers at Berg Injury Lawyers can help you get compensation for your injuries.
Most Common Swimming Pool Injuries
Swimming pools are a great place to relax and have fun, but they also come with risks if safety isn’t a priority. Here’s a look at some common types of pool-related injuries:
- Slips and Falls: These happen when pool decks become slippery from splashed water or oil from sunscreen, especially if the decks lack anti-slip textures. Slips and falls can lead to bruises, broken bones, head injuries, or drowning if the fall causes unconsciousness in the pool.
- Diving Accidents: These occur when swimmers dive into water that’s too shallow or collide with underwater obstacles. The results can be severe, including spinal injuries or head trauma.
- Chemical Exposure: Pools need chemicals like chlorine and disinfectants to stay clean, but if they’re not mixed properly, swimmers can suffer from skin rashes, eye irritation, and breathing problems.
- Electrical Shocks: Faulty wiring and improper use of electrical devices near water can lead to electric shocks. These are extremely dangerous and can cause burns, heart issues, or drowning if the shock incapacitates the swimmer.
- Entrapment Injuries: Swimmers may get parts of their bodies or hair caught in pool drains or suction devices that aren’t properly covered. If not addressed quickly, these entrapment injuries can lead to bruises, cuts, or death.
Premises Liability and Pools
Under premises liability law in California, pool owners are responsible for keeping their pools safe and ensuring there are free from hazards. If someone gets hurt because the pool wasn’t maintained properly or there wasn’t a clear warning about potential dangers, the owner can be held liable.
Pool owners should focus on the following areas to keep visitors safe:
| Area of Focus | Description | CA Statute | Responsibility |
| Proper Supervision | Public pools must ensure that properly trained lifeguards are present to supervise patrons. | Swimming pool regulations require lifeguards to receive specific training and certification every three years. | Pool owner or management. |
| Safety Equipment | Have safety gear like life rings, pool covers, and proper fencing to prevent unsupervised access. | California Building Code 3119B requires safety features like enclosures and barriers. | Pool owner or maintenance staff. |
| Pool Maintenance | Regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and pool equipment repair to prevent health issues and accidents. | Health and Safety Codes 116040 and 116043 require sanitary pool conditions, including the structure and water quality. | Pool owner, management, staff, or a third-party service. |
| Adherence to Safety Regulations | Comply with local and state regulations regarding pool construction, depth markers, and signage. | California Building Code 3103B through 3109. | Project managers, pool owners, third-party contractors, pool management, and staff. |
Tips for Staying Safe Around Swimming Pools
Wherever you’re swimming—at a local public pool, a friend’s place, or in your backyard—take proactive measures to ensure a safe experience. Always follow these steps to help prevent injuries and accidents in the water:
- Pay Attention to Safety Campaigns: Read up on safety measures and regulatory changes through the many public campaigns for swimming safety. The California Department of Public Health offers safety tips and a Drowning Prevention toolkit with excellent resources to help prevent a tragedy.
- Constant Supervision: Always have a responsible adult watching when children are in or near the pool. Never assume someone else is watching.
- Swimming Skills: Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim. Many local YMCAs and community centers offer swimming lessons.
- Rescue Equipment: Keep a life ring, rope, and pole near the pool or know where they are located when visiting. Ensure that these are easily accessible in an emergency.
- Follow the Rules: Follow swimming rules for public and private pools, such as no diving in shallow water, no running on the pool deck, and no rough play.
- Check for Hazards: Inspect the pool area for slip hazards, uncovered drains, or exposed electrical wiring. Although the owner is responsible for finding and addressing dangers, you can help alert them and avoid injury.
Get Help for Your Pool Accident Injury Today
Unfortunately, even with the best precautions, you may be hurt in a pool accident. If you suffered injuries caused by a private or public pool owner’s negligence, speak with our attorneys at Berg Injury Lawyers.
We can investigate the incident, seek fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and help you get back on track. Contact us today for a free consultation.
