Getting a pool means the whole family’s in for some fun in the sun. But you probably also want to make sure that you know how to keep everyone safe.
After all, drowning is the number one cause of accidental death for 1- to 4-year-olds. And most of those drownings happen in home swimming pools, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). But taking a few pool security and safety precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents and/or responding to them quickly. These pool alarms and safety products can soup up your pool and set your mind at ease.
Pool Alarms
A pool safety alarm can alert you that a child has opened a door or gate to a pool area, or that they’ve fallen or jumped into the pool. This protection is extra valuable, since most drownings happen when adults don’t expect the child to be swimming at all, according to the AAP.
Pool alarms come in a range of different styles and functions. You’ll want to choose the type that best fits your pool’s setup and your own personal pool security needs. These can include:
Threshold Alarms
A threshold pool alarm attaches to a door, a window or a fence gate that leads to the pool. These gadgets sound an alarm when the door or gate is opened. They’re easy for adults to silence, but not for kids—usually because a disarming button is mounted high or even has a code.
- NOTE: The door will continue to sound for 30 seconds after it is opened, even if the door is closed immediately (the old manual is...
- IP67 WATERPROOF--Perfect ideal for outdoor use such as inground swimming pool alarm,patios, fence, shed,entrances and exits, prevent robbery...
- EASY TO INSTALL&USE--Compared with the wired type, it is more convenient to use, and it can be activated and stopped by the remote without...
- LOW BATTERY REMINDER--When the battery power is low, it will beep 6 times continuously. Pls replace the battery in time
- EXCELLENT QUANLITY &RELIABLE--Made with high grade PVC housing, rubberized weather/water resistant seal，although it is not UL rating
Wall-Mounted Alarms
A wall-mounted pool safety alarm can be attached to the pool wall, decking or fence, usually using screws, so it’s a pretty permanent fixture. It can detect waves on the surface of the water—some extra-high-tech models detect underwater movements too—and you’ll get an alert if a pet or person enters the pool. You simply turn it off when you’re ready for a swim. Either arm it when you’re done or look for a model that does this automatically after a short period without use.
- ASTM-CERTIFIED POOL ALARM - This alarm is certified for pools up to 16 x 32; For guidelines on larger or differently configured pools, refer...
- STATIONARY MOUNTING – PoolEye must be securely mounted for accuracy. Compatible with most concrete pool decks and aboveground pool top...
- WATER MOTION SENSOR – Be prepared with the PoolEye Immersion Pool Alarm. With its underwater motion sensor, PoolEye provides an extra...
- DUAL PROTECTION - A Poolside and an in-home remote alarm are included, so you will be immediately alerted whether you are inside or out
- EASY TO INSTALL – Mounting hardware is included for inground pool deck installations and aboveground pool top rail installations; If water...
Underwater Motion Detectors
This type of pool alarm is a techie’s dream come true. Underwater motion detectors use sonar to detect anything unusual underneath the surface of the water. They tend to be pretty sensitive—able to pick up on anything 15 pounds or higher—and may be less likely to create false alarms because of benign disturbances like a strong gust of wind.
- WATER MOTION SENSOR – Be prepared and armed with the PoolEye Immersion Pool Alarm. With its underwater motion sensor, PoolEye provides an...
- EASY TO INSTALL – The PoolEye Pool Alarm is battery powered and easy to install. With all hardware included, it quickly installs under the...
- FEWER FALSE ALARMS – The water motion sensor features sub-surface wave detection that will not pick up movement from rain or wind, meaning...
- POOLSIDE SIREN – The PoolEye Aboveground Pool Alarm emits a loud 85 dB siren directly from the device that will notify any nearby adults...
- The bracket is adjustable and can accommodate a pool wall up to a maximum thickness of 1.2 inches
Personal Detectors
Want to keep a close eye on your kid, instead of the pool? Have them wear a wristband that sounds an alarm when it gets wet. Families with some people who are allowed in the pool without supervision and others who aren’t may prefer this option.
- Not backward compatible. Will not work with old B102 Station
- No programming - Just plug and go
- Can add multiple child and pet turtle bands to one system
- Fun design - Kids will wear!
- Portable - Great for vacation.
Floating Sensors
Particularly ideal for above-ground pools or if you’d rather not screw something into your pool wall is a floating sensor. This type of pool alarm floats on the surface of the water like a buoy and can detect when a pet or child enters the pool. Also, a floating pool safety alarm is easily portable, if you want to take it along on vacation.
- 💂 Lifebuoy alarms are equipped with motion detector sensors which trigger the alarm when a child or pet falls into the water. It can...
- ✔️Lifebuoy Pool Alarm devices have an innovative state of the art technology to ensure your safety in all types of pools: a pool alarm...
- 📱 Lifebuoy pool alarm system comes with a smart Bluetooth app which is used to setup and control the pool alarm. Use it to adjust the...
- ⚙️ Setting up is easy! All batteries are included - just attach the pool unit poolside using the provided attachment kit, and you are...
- 🏊 Lifebuoy uses a smart feature named Swim Mode. When Swim Mode is activated, the alarm will not sound off – to allow swimming. Should...
Other safety gear to consider getting for your pool area
These pool security products create a barrier that can help people out of the pool when it’s not in use.
Pool Fences
Pool fences are essential for keeping loved ones, as well as neighborhood kids and animals, out of your pool. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a pool fence is the most effective and proven way to prevent young children from drowning.
Pool fences are available in both permanent and portable options. Look for a fence that’s at least four feet high and surrounds the pool on all four sides. For pool security, the fence shouldn’t be climbable, and vertical slats should be less than 4 inches apart. Any pool latch should be at least 54 inches from the ground, so small kids can’t open them on their own, and the gate should be self-closing and self-latching, so it’s not accidentally left ajar, recommends the AAP.
- POOL SAFETY FENCE – Protects against unauthorized access to your pool, keeping your loved ones safe. Sturdy & extremely safe while in use,...
- STRONG & DURABLE – WaterWarden Inground Pool Safety Fences are UL-Certified and made of super-strong, UV protected Meshylene fabric with...
- DIMENSIONS – Each section of fence measures 5’ high and 12’ long. The spring-loaded safety latch system quickly and easily joins fence...
- DIY INSTALLATION – This WaterWarden pool enclosure fence installs in minutes by simply drilling ⅝” holes and inserting the poles. A...
- WATERWARDEN – With state-of-the-art technology and a keen understanding of pool safety born of over five decades of experience,...
Pool Covers
A pool cover protects the pool from leaves, petals and dirt. Having one can also deter kids (and neighbors) from trying to hop in the pool. To prevent a child from falling and slipping underneath the cover, make sure it covers the whole pool securely. Look for a pool cover that fits the ASTM International guidelines for safety. (It should be labeled as ASTM certified.)
Consider an automatic pool cover, since they’re made to hold a lot of weight and seal the pool on all sides. Plus they’re super convenient to use, because no heavy lifting is necessary. Know that floating pool covers can actually be a safety hazard, since they make the pool surface look like it’s solid ground, but someone stepping on top could still fall in and even become trapped or hidden from view.
- SUPERIOR THICKNESS AND STRENGTH – Made of thick and durable polypropylene, this pool safety cover has a break-strength of over 4,000 lbs....
- ADDED SAFETY AND DURABILITY – This swimming pool cover features 2-ply strapping that’s triple-stitched throughout for maximum strength....
- HIGHEST QUALITY STANDARDS – In addition to its 15-year warranty, this cover is UL classified in accordance with ASTM Standard F1346,...
- INSTALLATION HARDWARE INCLUDED – A tamping tool, installation rod and hex key are included for installation. The solid brass anchors...
- FITS A 12’ X 24' POOL – This WaterWarden pool cover features a generous 1’ overlap on all sides to ensure complete coverage The...
Pool Nets
A pool net is an alternative to a pool cover that’s often less expensive and lighter and easier to place over the pool. A net won’t keep your pool free of leaves and other debris, the way a pool cover can, but it could deter someone from entering your pool. Know that a child or a pet could get a limb caught in the net, though, so it’s important to stay vigilant even if you have one.
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Durably crafted using 100% polyethylene netting, the WaterWarden Pool Safety Net is built for long term use. Each...
- OPTIMAL PROTECTION: This pool safety netting is available in a variety of sizes to safeguard any pool and protect children and pets from...
- EASY INSTALLATION: Available for your specific pool size and shape, you’ll receive your pool net cover ready for attachment. Simply trim...
- VERSATILE USE: This pool safety net cover is great for homeowners with little deck space. Extremely lightweight, durable and easy to...
- INCLUDES ALL HARDWARE: All pool protection net purchases include all hardware, binding materials and a quick roll reel for easy net storage....
Wrapping Up
Before you buy, check the pool safety and security regulations in your area. A specific type of pool alarm, fence and/or cover may be required by law.
And of course, follow pool safety precautions, including watching children closely in the pool and taking CPR training. Swim lessons for everyone in the family are important, too. If a child is missing, always look in the pool first.
Now, go enjoy some safe swimming!
This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer Banta.
Officer Banta is the official SecurityNerd home security and safety expert. A member of the Biloxi Police Department for over 24 years, Officer Banta reviews all articles before lending his stamp of approval. Click here for more information on Officer Banta and the rest of our team.
