Summer 2019 Pool Safety Tips

The first day of summer is here! Schools just let out, the temperatures are rising, and we’re getting more hours of sunlight in the day. It’s that time of year to hit the pool! Before you dive in, however, take a minute to read our pool safety tips so that you’re well-prepared in case of an emergency.

Do not leave children unsupervised in or near the water

Before you head out to the pool, whether it be open to the public or in your backyard, make sure that at least one responsible adult is looking after the kids to make sure they’re safe. This is especially important for children that do not know how to swim yet. If a child who doesn’t know how to swim tries to get in the water without a proper flotation device, an adult needs to be on standby to quickly interfere when needed.

Regardless of the age and swimming ability of your child, it’s essential for them to be watched throughout the duration of their stay at the pool as accidents can happen.

Learn to perform CPR in case of an emergency

Nobody likes to think about the possibility of a friend or family member needing CPR, but learning how to handle a situation that requires it can help to provide peace of mind. You can get a CPR certification through in-person classes for less than $100, or simply take online courses for free.

It is especially important to know CPR if you have a pool of your own due to the fact that there isn’t a lifeguard readily available like there is at public pools.

Ensure that any child in the water knows how to swim. If not, equip them with a floating device

If your child or any children that you’re supervising cannot swim, provide them with a flotation device if they want to get in the pool. Some children are more eager to hop in the pool than others, but any child can benefit from swimming lessons taught either by a family member or a professional at a group swimming class depending on your budget.

The best way to teach your child how to swim varies depending on their age and overall interest in the activity, but an adult should be in the water with the child at all times until they are old enough and experienced enough to brave the pool on their own.

Keep in mind that pool toys such as noodles and inner tubes do not provide adequate support for your child; flotation devices that are Coast Guard approved should be provided to ensure their safety.

Teach children to stay away from drains and other openings

Children will be safer in the water if they are taught to avoid drains and filters. Old or improperly managed drain covers create a strong circulation in the water that can cause injury or even death in the event that one becomes blocked by a body part.

TheVirginia Graeme Baker Pool, Spa Safety Act (VGB Act) was enacted in 2007 to ensure that public pools and spas are equipped with anti-entrapment drain covers and safety devices; however, children should still stay away from drains in case the pool has not been properly inspected by a professional.

Make sure you review these pool safety tips with your child before they dive in this summer to ensure that their trip to the pool is as fun and relaxing as possible!

Call Risk Averse Insurance in Media, PA to discuss your personal or business insurance.

Risk Averse Insurance is an independent insurance agency in Delaware County that specializes in providing high-quality insurance products at an affordable price.

Workers’ Compensation for Your Small Business

If you’re a small business owner with only a couple of employees, you may not think that carrying a workers’ compensation insurance policy is necessary. However, as long as you have at least one employee, Pennsylvania requires by law that you have a workers’ comp policy in place.

 

The laws on workers’ compensation vary by state, but this type of insurance has been required under Pennsylvania law for most business owners since 1915 when the Pennsylvania Workmen’s Compensation Act was enacted. This act protects employers as well as employees from the costs associated with medical treatment after a work-related injury or disease. Texas is the only state in the United States that does not require workers’ compensation by law.

There are, of course, some exemptions, but workers’ compensation is generally required by law for all small business owners that have at least one employee. If you’re thinking you’d prefer to opt out of purchasing this coverage, the fees you would incur from breaking the law far exceed any annual premium you’d be paying your insurance company. Furthermore, you would still be obligated to pay for any injured employees’ medical bills and lost wages.

 

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

A workers’ compensation policy provides wage replacement and medical benefits to any employee who is injured on the job. In return for these benefits, the employee waives the right to sue you, the employer, for negligence in most cases. This policy will pay 100% of the employees’ medical costs for all work-related injuries.

If your employee gets seriously injured and is unable to return to work right away, a workers’ compensation policy will also pay for the employee’s lost wages while they are out on medical leave. The maximum return wage in Pennsylvania is currently set at $1,049 per week; this means that the injured employee can be paid up to 66% of their normal wage subject to a max amount of $1,049 each week.

If your small business has “sub-contractors” or 1099 employees, you may still need coverage. These subs can be considered employees, making you responsible for injuries that occur on the job. Your best bet is totalk to a Risk Averse agent about your specific situation to determine whether you need to carry a workers’ compensation policy.

How Much Does a Workers’ Compensation Policy Cost?

Your premium amount will vary depending on your payroll and the industry you’re in, but the amount you pay in premiums will be small compared to the amount that a trip to the hospital will cost; an ambulance ride alone can be expensive.

Since most small businesses are not sure exactly what their payroll is going to be for the year, your insurance provider will calculate an estimated premium based on your estimated payroll. When your policy expires, your insurance company will audit your payroll and you will receive a refund if your actual payroll was less than the estimated payroll. However, if actual payroll turns out to be more than estimated payroll, you would owe the insurance company money.

Risk Averse Insurance has been insuring Delco and the surrounding areas since 2015, providing expert service while offering affordable prices on workers’ compensation insurance. We want to partner with your small business and ensure that you’re getting the best possible coverage.

 

Call Risk Averse Insurance in Media, PA to discuss workers’ compensation coverage for your small business.

Risk Averse Insurance is an independent insurance agency in Delaware County that specializes in providing high-quality insurance products at an affordable price.