Arizona Swimming Pool Accidents

Swimming pool accidents account for one of the most common types of premises liability cases, especially in states that frequently experience extreme heat. In warmer climates, swimming pools provide a fun and relaxing break from the heat, but can also present significant dangers. It is imperative that swimming pool owners and managers take every precaution to prevent avoidable swimming pool accidents from occurring.

Arizona is no stranger to swimming pool accidents; in fact, according to the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona, it ranked 4th among all 50 states for drowning deaths among children from the ages of 1 to 4 years old. Unfortunately, children are particularly susceptible to swimming pool injuries and drowning due to a lack of strength, swimming ability, and knowledge of water safety. If you or a loved one were injured or died in a swimming pool accident, reach out to a premises liability attorney as soon as possible.

Injuries commonly sustained in swimming pool accidents include but are not necessarily limited to the following:

• Slip and fall injuries
• Diving board injuries
• Head injuries
• Brain injuries
• Oxygen deprivation
• Recreational water illnesses (RWIs)
• Aspiration pneumonia from infections
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Hypothermia
• Electrocution
• Drowning

Arizona property owners have a duty of care toward any occupants or guests of their pool.

Homeowners and property management companies are two of the parties considered to owe a duty of care toward anyone who enters their pool. This includes invited guests, family members, and even those who wander into the property without permission—especially children. Not all homeowners policies cover swimming pools, so it’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider to learn more about your coverage options if you have purchased a pool.

Homeowners and property managers can take certain steps to increase protection for pool visitors thereby reducing liability in the event of an accident.

Recommended precaution for pool owners or managers include but are not limited to the following:

• Avoid placing objects near the pool which could be used to jump from.
• Install a fence or gate around the pool to prevent unaccompanied children from wandering in.
• Do not allow glass containers near the pool.
• Do not allow guests who may be impaired by drugs or alcohol to enter the pool.
• Post warning signs.
• Make an effort to reduce slippery surfaces.
• Mark the depth at different parts of the pool.
• Make sure water-rescue gear is easily accessible in case you need to quickly help someone exit the water.
• Do not install a diving board or other devices that could be jumped from anywhere except a reasonably deep end of the pool.
• Replace any broken or missing handrails, steps, ladders or other parts of the pool environment immediately.
• Do not allow children to swim unattended.
• Install motion-activated lights near the pool in case a child or someone else wanders in.
• Make sure the lighting is good whenever someone is in the pool.
• Provide life jackets or other approved flotation devices for children or others who are not confident swimmers.

If you or a loved one were injured in a swimming pool accident and believe the injury could have been avoided with reasonable attention to safety, you might be eligible to file a premises liability claim. To learn more about swimming pool accidents, swimming pool liability, or for help filing, reach out to a premises liability attorney in your area.