Common Swimming Pool Injuries

Swimming pools whether it is at a private residence, hotel, theme park or other businesses can be dangerous to children and adults alike. Thousands of people are injured in swimming pool accidents each year. These injuries can happen in a few minutes in just a little water. This includes drowning. But, if a child or adult does not drown, there are other longterm side effects like brain damage, coma, paralysis, memory loss, and a permanent loss of physical functioning.

If a child or adult slips and falls, he or she can sustain sprains or broken bones along with concussions or spinal injuries from diving into a shallow pool. Then, there are lacerations from sharp edges, skin irritation from pool chemicals and entrapment from the drain suction. 

Causes of Swimming Pool Injuries

Many pools lack the basic protections needed to keep swimmers safe. Examples of safety hazards include:

• No pool fencing or barrier
• Faulty ladders
• Excessively shallow deep ends
• Lack of anti-entrapment devices
• Loose tiles or other pool deck hazards
• Diving boards or slides
• Defective or absent pool or spa drains
• Improper pool maintenance
• Negligent pool staff
• Slippery surfaces
• Improper pool designs or construction
• Chemical burns
• Contamination