April 2018

MANAGEMENT TRENDS

Get Your Pool Ready for Summer By Dawn Mackanic, CMCA

S ummer is right around the corner and residents are usually very excited for the pool to open. Pools are one of the most used HOA amenities. Therefore, it’s imperative to get it ready for the summer season and to make sure it’s safe. Start by inspecting all the com- ponents. Even if everything was working perfectly fine at the end of last season, that pool has now sat there all winter. One of the first things you should check is the surface of the pool for cracks, blisters and discoloration as they will take time to correct. Have someone test the pool pumps to ensure that they are working properly. Check the pool deck and furniture to make sure they don’t have any hazards.

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“If your HOA uses a Pool Management company, make sure all the staff is trained properly, including the lifeguards.”

Tighten any loose ladders or handrails. A few other import- ant items, sometimes overlooked, are to check the phone line connections, the first aid kits, and the AED batteries and pads. And check the pool cover for damage-you will be thankful you did in the fall. If your HOA uses a Pool Management company, make sure all the staff is trained properly, including the lifeguards. Pool safety is critical for the protection of your residents. Lifeguards are also usually responsible for day to day main- tenance of the pool. They should also be well trained to monitor the chemicals and clean the pool properly. If your HOA does not hire lifeguards, it’s important to have strict safety rules in place. Many HOA’s use the

“buddy system”, which requires residents to not swim alone. Make sure that the first aid kit, rescue equipment and AED are clearly marked. A few months before the season, make sure that you have the proper paperwork in place. Start early by getting the nec- essary forms together in order to get your permits. Check with your township to verify that there haven’t been any changes in regulations. And be ready for your health inspector! If you have a pool house or cabana, do a complete inspection of the bathroom fixtures. Think about safety issues, like slippery floors, and take necessary precautions. Have a plumber in place to de winterize the water lines. You will also need to have the bathrooms properly cleaned

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