Swimming Pools 620-01-95-25
(Revised 8/1/12 ML #3342)
View Archives
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission warn that portable backyard pools pose a significant safety risk to children under the age of five. For all pools on the child care premises, the following swimming pool guidelines must be adhered to:
- Pools that do not receive an annual health inspection by the health department may not be used by child care children during childcare hours.
- An adult shall directly supervise the children while the pool is in use. Children may not be left alone in the pool or surrounding area without adult supervision.
- Additional adult supervision during the time the pool is in use may be of benefit to the provider and the children.
- The provider shall get permission in writing from the parents of the children to use the pool.
- The provider shall make sure that their liability insurance covers the use of the swimming pool for child care purposes.
- The pool must be inaccessible to children when not in use (fenced area, secure cover, or constant direct supervision to ensure children will not enter the pool).
- The pool needs to be cleaned as recommended by the manufacturer. The provider may check with the local or state health department for information.
- Provider and staff members shall know where the switch for the drain is located.
- The provider shall follow all applicable local and state ordinances regarding swimming pools.