With the summer months right around the corner, it’s about time to prepare your pool for the season. Whether you’re opening your pool for the summer, or eventually closing it down for the winter, it’s always important to pay close attention to the chemicals you are using, as they impact everyone and everything that comes into contact with your pool. Here are some best practices for pool chemical safety.
Read the directions. Closely reading the directions, so that you know how to properly use, store and add chemicals to the pool, is paramount. Make sure to follow the instructions closely to avoid any potential accidents. Remember, each chemical needed to keep your pool swimmer-ready are specifically designed for a different purpose. Don’t assume that all chemicals are administered the same – each one comes with its own set of instructions, so it's important to ensure that you understand each of them individually and combines.
Protect yourself. Like in chemistry class, you'll want to make sure you protect yourself from the effects of the chemicals. Always wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, or an air mask when adding chemicals to your pool. These items will be able to protect you from those pesky chemical burns. Also, keep in mind that pool chemicals should be opened in the open air, not an enclosed space. Doing so will help you avoid inhaling harmful chemicals.
Bring the chemicals to the water. If a chemical requires that you add it to water, be sure to fill a container with water and then add the chemical after. The mixture may splash out of the container if water is added to a chemical and that may seriously harm you. There is nothing fun about having a pool that you are unable to swim in due to injury.
Store your chemicals properly. Chemical storage is key to keeping yourself safe in between uses. Like most chemicals, keep them away from flammable materials and tightly close the lids when they are not in use. Pool chemicals should also not be stored on top of each other, the mixing of chemicals is dangerous and could have disastrous results. Keep the chemicals in a safe place where pets and children can’t get in them, like locked up in a shed.
By following these tips, you’ll have a head start of pool safety this summer. And should you need a refresher on pool maintenance or have questions about the right chemicals for your pool, visit your local pool supplies store.
