Swimming pool supply like toys and pool inflatables can add worlds of fun to your swimming pool, but even more important are pool accessories designed to make your environment safe for everyone to enjoy. As a pool owner, your first priority should be creating a haven for swimmers young and old. Take the following four steps to ensure your pool is as safe as possible.

• Fencing. If you have young tikes running around the property, whether they are your own kids or from the neighborhood, sturdy, pool fencing is a must to prevent tragedy. You will find plenty of options that can be customized to fit the shape and size of your pool. Even if you do not have children, fencing can prevent pets from falling into the water or unwanted visitors from entering your pool. It is an important consideration for any pool owner.

• Alarms. Pool supply alarm systems are another smart way to deter people and pets from taking a dip, or at least notify you of their actions. Options include alarms that you can hook onto a gate/fence or door (should someone enter your yard or a little one escape from your house to the pool area). Other choices monitor the pool water and go off if someone or something enters unauthorized.

• Safety flooring and rail grips. Nonslip gear isn’t just for toddlers and the elderly. Anyone who has been around an actively used pool knows water gets sloshed everywhere and can make surrounding tiles and concrete surfaces slippery, even for the most fit and agile adults. Equip your swimming pool with tiles and mats that are easy to install and reduce slippage. You also can purchase a product such as InvisaTread Outdoors, which increases the friction on the surface it is applied to. Rail grips not only make it easier for you to grab hold of wet rails straight from the pool, they also can prevent burns on scorching days.

• Lifesaving gear. Let’s hope you will never need lifeguard equipment, but stock up on these safety items anyway. The Life Hook, a simple, inexpensive device that is attached to a standard pole, can be used in emergencies (or for teaching purposes). Other pool supply accessories include depth markers to help swimmers track how deep they are, lifeguard equipment such as a rescue can or tube and life ring, and a first-aid kit.

With thoughtful planning, you will have a swimming pool that is as safe as it is pleasurable.

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