For most people living in New Jersey, pools are seasonal amenities. With exceptions for those who own an enclosed swimming pool in a heated structure, most people have to winterize their pools during the autumn months.
While the pool is out of commission for the season, owners may become laxer about ensuring its security. They may stop closing or locking the gate to the yard, for example. Unfortunately, their complacency could have tragic consequences for other people in the community. Even when a pool isn’t useful for swimming due to weather conditions, it can still present a hazard to people.
Pools may not freeze completely
What looks like solid ice on the surface of a pool may not actually be strong enough to hold a human’s weight. People who venture out onto frozen pools can go through the ice, leading to injury, illness or drowning incidents. Children, in particular, might view a partially frozen pool like a skating rink, not recognizing the risk.
As such, local pool owners should make sure that members of their community, including children in the neighborhood, cannot access the pool even when it is frozen or covered for the season. The failure to take appropriate steps to limit access could have tragic consequences for children looking for an adventure or teenagers hoping to record a video for social media.
Even during the coldest part of the year, pools can be a hazard for everyone who has access to them. Holding pool owners accountable for insufficient security and unsafe property conditions can potentially help families recover losses related to a swimming pool incident. A premises liability lawsuit can be an option if owners do not keep their pools secure and safe, and harm occurs as a result.