Pool
ladders are an important addition to any pool, regardless of whether
it is above ground or in ground. Not only do they allow persons to
enter and exit the pool more easily, they allow people to do so in
a safe fashion. Of course, to ensure the safety of all persons in
or directly outside a pool, it is important to follow a few safety
precautions regarding the installation of and use of the pool ladders.
• Non-slip materials – make sure that the ladder is not
slippery. This is important for both ones that are in the water and
ones that are outside it (either leading up to a diving board, slide,
or the side of an above ground pool).
• Handrails – there should be handrails on both sides
of the ladder, and these rails should be small enough that a child
can grass them.
• Step width – the steps should be no less than 3 inches
wide.
• Number – one ladder is not enough – have at least
one ladder at each end of the pool. This way, a person can easily
get out of the water, no matter where he or she is, when tired or
injured, etc.
• Inspect – regularly inspect the ladders and railings
and be sure to repair them the moment you notice that they are broken
or rickety. Make sure that they are securely fastened and do not lift
when in use.
• Lock it up – when your above ground pool is not in
use, lock up or take down the ladder leading up to it so that small
children and others cannot play in the pool unsupervised.
• No playing – do not allow children to play on the ladder
(i.e. they should not be climbing up on the handrails and jumping
off). Misuse of pool ladders can lead to injury.