Swimming is one of the most anticipated Summer-time activities for most people. Whether you enjoy playing pool games, swimming laps, or relaxing next to the pool, almost everyone loves spending time at the pool in the Summer.
Unfortunately, Slip and Fall accidents are not just for icy Winter times but are very much a reality at the pool. The pool is a slippery place; we’re often busy running around and having fun, forgetting to slow down and watch our steps.
Here are some ways to improve your safety while enjoying your pool time!
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Preventing Slips & Falls
If you have your own pool, here are some steps to make it safer for everyone who uses it.
- Install slip-resistant surfaces (these come in various forms, like a special coating, mats, tiles, etc.)
- Ensure you have adequate lighting in the pool, around the pool, and anywhere else someone may walk while wet
- Stay on top of cleaning and maintenance. Ensure debris is removed from the pool and surrounding areas, walkways are dried regularly, nothing is loose or falling off, and so on
- Ensure appropriate signage, warning users of deep water, shallow water, particularly slippery areas, etc.
If you are visiting a public pool, here are some things you can look out for:
- If any of the pool deck tiles are loose and creating a tripping hazard, or any of the handrails and other equipment are not secured properly, let staff know right away
- Ensure tripping hazards (such as toys and other items tossed on walkways and other walkable or usable areas) are removed
- Use pool-appropriate, non-slip footwear to reduce your chances of slipping
- Make sure that you and those with whom you’re visiting the pool are decent swimmers and/or are wearing appropriate vests and floating devices should someone fall into the pool
- Make sure that you are alert, feeling well, sober, and in good physical condition for the activities with which you are engaging
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What To Do If You Do Slip
If you do end up slipping and falling at the pool and injuring yourself, report your injury to the owner or manager of the pool right away. If possible, take photos as well showing the surrounding area or what you tripped/slipped on. It can be hard to remember to take these steps when you or a loved one are hurt, but this can be very helpful in supporting your case.
When it comes to filing a personal injury claim, it depends on whether you can show that your fall was due to negligence on behalf of the owner or whoever is responsible for the pool. You may even be able to sue the pool manufacturer if certain safety features are missing that one would expect to be present.
For example, if there are construction issues that you should not have to worry about (such as a water slide falling apart during use), it is also possible that you could file a claim successfully.
Canadian Law also gives room for willingly assuming a risk. This means that, depending on the circumstances and the type of injury you sustain, it could be argued that you should have reasonably expected the risks.
A good example of arguments made from both sides can be seen in a Nova Scotia case in 2012 when a woman sued a hotel when she slipped and injured herself while using their pool. A BC woman sued the City of Kelowna in 2015 when she slipped on a puddle of water. They claimed that the City was negligent in failing to take steps to minimize slip hazards.
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The best way to determine if you do or do not have a personal injury claim is to speak to a personal injury lawyer.
At McGuiness Law, our consultations are free (no strings attached), and you are not obligated to continue with us and use our services.
We can point you in the right direction, and you can decide if you would like us in your corner. We are passionate about what we do, and we are good at it. Our focus is to ensure that your voice is heard and that you get the full compensation that you deserve.
To connect with us, use our website contact form or give us a toll-free call at 1-833-585-4145.