1. Smooth, Non-Abrasive Surfaces

One of the standout features of fiberglass pools is their smooth, non-abrasive surfaces. Unlike concrete pools, which can be rough on the skin and cause scrapes or abrasions, fiberglass pools are designed to be gentle. This is especially important for young children who are learning to swim and might accidentally bump into the sides or bottom of the pool.

The smooth surface also reduces the risk of cuts and injuries, making the pool safer for everyone, including older adults who may have more sensitive skin.

2. Built-In Safety Features

Many fiberglass pools come with built-in safety ledges and shallow areas, which provide a safe space for children or less confident swimmers to play and practice swimming. These ledges give kids the ability to stand or rest in the water without needing to be in deeper areas of the pool.

In addition, some fiberglass pool models come with gradual entries, like tanning ledges or beach entries, where the water depth increases slowly. This feature is perfect for small children, elderly family members, or anyone who prefers a gentle slope rather than stepping into deep water right away.

3. Non-Slip Surfaces for Pool Decking

When customising the pool area around your fiberglass pool, it’s important to choose materials that offer slip resistance. Pool decks made of concrete, pavers, or tiles (check for suitable slip rating) can be designed with textures that reduces the likelihood of slipping, making the entire area safer, especially when wet.

Fiberglass pools, combined with non-slip decking materials, create an environment where children and adults alike can move around the pool without the constant worry of slipping.

4. Pool Covers and Fencing for Extra Protection

While fiberglass pools themselves offer several safety advantages, it’s essential to invest in additional protective measures like pool covers and fencing.

• Pool Covers: Automatic or manual pool covers can provide an additional layer of safety when the pool is not in use. Not only do they keep debris out of the water, but they also prevent children or pets from accidentally falling in.
• Fencing: A pool fence is a legal requirement, and it’s a vital safety measure for any backyard pool. Choose fencing that is tall enough to prevent children from climbing over and ensure that it has a secure, self-closing gate.

Installing both pool covers and fencing can be an effective way to keep your pool secure when it’s not in use.

5. Easy-to-Clean Surfaces Reduce Water Quality Issues

Maintaining clean and safe water is key to preventing accidents and health issues related to poor water quality. Fiberglass pools are known for their smooth, non-porous surfaces, which prevent algae buildup and reduce the need for heavy chemical usage. This ensures that your pool water remains cleaner and safer for swimmers.

Additionally, because fiberglass pools are easier to clean and maintain, there’s less risk of water becoming murky or chemically imbalanced, which can sometimes lead to accidental slips or poor visibility.

6. Easy Compatibility with Saltwater, Mineral or freshwater pools

Saltwater, mineral or freshwater pools are often preferred for families because they offer a gentler and more natural swimming experience. Fiberglass pools are highly compatible with these systems, which means you can enjoy the benefits of soft, low-irritant water without the harsh chemicals found in traditional chlorine pools.

These pools also reduce the risk of skin and eye irritation, making swimming a more comfortable and enjoyable experience, particularly for children and people with sensitive skin.

7. Safety During Installation

Fiberglass pools are pre-molded and delivered to your home ready for installation, which reduces the overall installation time compared to concrete pools. This means less construction happening in your backyard for an extended period, which can be a safety concern when kids and pets are around. A faster installation process minimises the disruption and reduces potential hazards associated with ongoing construction.

Maximizing Pool Safety: What You Can Do

While fiberglass pools offer built-in safety features, there are several steps you can take to maximize safety around your pool:

1. Teach Water Safety: Ensure that everyone in the family, especially children, understands water safety rules, including not running near the pool and always swimming with a buddy.
2. Supervise Swimmers: Always supervise children when they are in or near the pool. Even confident swimmers can have accidents, so it’s important to keep an eye on everyone.
3. Use Life Vests: For younger children or less confident swimmers, consider using life vests or floatation devices when they are in the pool.
4. Install Pool Alarms: Pool alarms can alert you when someone enters the water, providing an extra layer of safety, particularly if you have young children.

Conclusion: A Safer Pool Experience for the Whole Family

Fiberglass pools offer numerous safety advantages, from their smooth, non-abrasive surfaces to built-in safety ledges and compatibility with saltwater, mineral or freshwater sanitisation pool systems. By combining these features with essential safety measures like pool covers, fencing, and proper supervision, you can create a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for everyone in the family.

Whether you’re planning for fun pool days with the kids or relaxing swims in the evening, a fiberglass pool ensures that safety is built into the experience from the start.