There are a variety of swimming and water sports activities enjoyed by many of us during the summer months and beyond. Pools, water parks, lakes, and beaches all provide opportunities to enjoy the cool comfort of the water. When enjoying a day at one of these areas, there are many potential dangers.
Inadequate signage
Signs are common around swimming areas. They may advise people that there are no lifeguards on duty, or impose rules ranging from no “horseplay” running, or diving. Particularly in a pool or water park scenario, signage warning people about the dangers is critical for public safety. Too often, swimming institutions neglect to put up the proper signage to warn of potential dangers, which can lead to injury.
A lack of lifeguards
The more popular a swimming attraction becomes, the more important it is to have well-trained personnel and adequate staffing levels. Further distractions such as phones or reading materials need to be prohibited from use while a lifeguard is on duty.
Water Park Hazards
Some of the most horrific water injuries occur at water parks and similar recreational facilities. Improper design or inadequate maintenance can make those attractions a serious hazard for visitors. There have been cases of severe and fatal injuries at poorly designed water slides or other rides. Inadequate maintenance of rides or attractions can also lead to catastrophic failure and preventable injuries.
Improper safety equipment
Up-to-date safety equipment can save someone’s life, and make it easier for lifeguards, or even bystanders, to take lifesaving action. Common equipment at swimming areas can include flotation devices, guards, railings, and defibrillators. A lack of equipment could mean a preventable death occurs at a facility. The number of safety devices placed throughout should also reflect the overall volume of visitors to the attraction.
Those harmed due to unsafe equipment or inadequate staffing at water facilities may have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit, particularly if they suffer a life-altering injury like a paralyzing spinal cord injury. Because such cases tend to be particularly complicated, it is generally wise to seek personalized legal guidance as proactively as possible.