Above Ground Pool Ladders - Making Pools Safer

Above ground pools are often associated with unnecessary safety concerns and injuries. Still, they are increasing in popularity as they are often much less expensive than built in swimming pools and normally require much less maintenance.

One of the largest dangers with above ground swimming pools is the process of getting in and out of one. The steps can often be narrow and slippery with a very narrow margin of error. In fact, the process of accessing the pool due to the danger of the steps leaves consumers with the notion of simply not using their pool at all. Fortunately, there is a viable alternative to this safety concern that allows for an enjoyable experience with your above ground pool by following very basic and rudimentary steps in selecting your next above ground pool’s steps. This article will discuss the aspects that are crucial to selecting the safest above ground pool ladders possible.

Child Safety

Children across the globe generally love playing and being in pools as often as possible. Research suggests a majority of injuries surrounding above ground pool ladders are from young children that are generally unsupervised. Even for children that are supervised, above ground pool ladders can be extremely dangerous. One of the best measures to keep you children safe with pool usage is purchasing a ladder that is complete with a gate. Most above ground pool ladder manufacturers create ladders that offer protection gates as part of the original manufacture of the ladders. Also, many ladder manufacturers offer the gate feature as an addition to your existing above ground pool ladder if one is unable to absorb the extra cost associated with one. These gates, complete with a padlock, are monumentally effective from keeping children off the ladder when not supervised as they can only be unlocked by the parent who has the key. These gates block the entire outer portion of the ladder which prevents your child from using the pool without your knowledge.

Consider the materials

The safest above ground pool ladders are those that are comprised of resin, plastic, or aluminum. Many above ground pool owners purchase ladders that are stainless steel to avoid rust for aesthetic purposes. These consumers are often unaware that such high quality resin, plastic, or aluminum materials are rust resistant as well and come in varying designer appearances. Furthermore, these materials are often coated with slip resistant coating to give an extra padding of safety while in use.

Safe dimensions

One of the largest complaints with above ground pool ladders is that the steps fail to reach further into the pool to allow for safe entry and exit. Often, this is where slips occur as many people of smaller heights must jump off the ladder when exiting the pool and jump into the pool when entering. Obviously, when wet, this activity is extremely dangerous and should be avoided. Serving as somewhat of a guide-post for usage, one should consider purchasing a long enough ladder to reach no more than 6 inches from the bottom of the pool on either side to avoid unnecessary jumping or climbing.