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What Duty Does the State Have to Prevent Drowning Accidents in California Public Pools?

There are many reasons to love living in California, including the many sunny days in which we can enjoy public pools. However, it is important that you know what your public pool should be doing to keep you safe and to ensure they are following those guidelines. Read on to learn what they are but if you or a loved one has suffered in a drowning accident, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for your free legal consultation.

Most Public Pools Must Have a Lifeguard on Duty

While there are exceptions, almost all California public pools must have a lifeguard on duty. The few exceptions to this rule must have signs posted that make it clear that there is no lifeguard on duty. When there is a lifeguard, said lifeguard must have up to date training and be certified in first aid and giving CPR.

There are also several types of safety equipment that a California public pool must have on hand. At a very minimum, they must have a phone, backboard with head and neck restraints, and a first aid kit. Larger pools are required to have two rescue poles along with ring-style life preservers. As is true of all pools in the state, public pools must be enclosed by a fence or structure that controls who can access the pool.

Public Pools Must Be Sanitized and Maintained

Whoever is responsible for operating a public pool is required to keep it clean and sanitized. This involves ensuring that leaves, trash, floating algae, and other debris does not stay in the pool. It involves removing clutter from around the pool and getting rid of other safety hazards. It also involves keeping the water clean and safe.

How do you know if the water is safe? While you cannot know for sure without testing it, one thing to remember is that if you cannot clearly see the bottom of the pool then it is not clean. The pool operator is required to test the pool each to make sure that the chemical levels are safe.

Public Pools Must Pass Inspections

A public pool operator must cooperate with public health or other agencies for pool inspections. If a public pool is found to not be in compliance, the operator could face a misdemeanor criminal charge and / or fines of as much a $1,000.

Were You Injured in a Public Pool?

If you were injured while at a public pool, whether by slipping and falling, drowning, or in another way entirely, you should talk to a personal injury attorney to find out if you have the right to compensation for your damages. You can easily reach Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas by calling us at 909-982-0707. We will go over your case, offer our advice, and determine what your best methods forward will be.