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Pool Rules Sign: Tips to Keep Swimmers Safe

Pool Rules Sign: Tips to Keep Swimmers Safe
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When using a pool, it is easy to become so caught up in the fun of swimming and playing with friends that safety tends to be put on the back burner. However, the truth is that many dangers can occur in a pool setting.

To ensure every guest has the safest experience possible when using a pool, it is crucial to put certain safety measures in place. These safety precautions can be found on the pool rules sign that must be conspicuously displayed at all times near the swimming area.

Displaying safety pool signage helps ensure swimmers know the rules and dangers that may affect them when swimming. Read on to learn the essential items that should appear on a pool rules sign.

Importance of Pool Rules Sign

Pool rules signs are an essential tool, as they serve the crucial function of warning swimmers of danger that could put their lives at risk. With all of the risks associated with swimming, it is important to ensure swimmers know all safety precautions before entering the pool and what to do should an emergency arise.

A sign of pool rules written in understandable terms and posted visibly near the swimming area will provide swimmers with the information they need to have a safe, fun experience. It also details the necessary steps to prevent accidents from occurring.

Besides, pool rules signs are essential to protect you from potential lawsuits. You don’t want to have someone use your swimming pool, get injured, then decide to sue you for damages. Using swimming pool signs properly will help you avoid liability in this situation.

Most swimmers take a pee in the water to avoid taking a pee break when using a pool. Unfortunately, this results in contaminated water, making the swimming experience sour and leading to people getting sick. By displaying a pool rules sign, you are making it known to everyone that no peeing in the pool is allowed, which can help reduce the chances of getting sick after swimming.

Pool Rules Sign Requirements

Regulated swimming pool owners must provide proper swimming signage stating the rules and safety precautions that apply to the swimming pool. However, several requirements must be met for the signage to be valid. A properly displayed pool rules sign must meet all of these requirements:

  • Written in clear, legible letters or numbers – The information provided on the pool rules sign must be clear and understandable from a distance of at least 50 feet. In addition, the text, letters, or numbers must be large enough to be easily read by a person with normal eyesight.
  • Be permanent: Pool rules signs should be fixed to a permanent structure lie a wall, gate, or fence. It should not be attached to any moveable objects such as ladders. This helps ensure that it is easily visible to swimmers at all times.
  • Be posted within the pool area: Signs must be posted within 50 feet of the pool boundaries and on the exterior walls of the pool so that swimmers can clearly view them from all angles. In addition, you can place it in common areas such as pool entrances, locker room entry and exit points, and sidewalks surrounding the pool.
  • Have information about rules and regulations: There must be clear language that includes all of the rules and regulations related to entering and using the pool. For example, opening and closing times should be listed on the sign. It should also show the shallow and deep ends, so swimmers can easily identify them. A pool rules sign should also list the maximum number of people allowed in the pool at one time and post warnings about diving.
  • At least 4-inch lettering – unless otherwise stated, all writings on the pool rules sign must be at least 4 inches in height. This ensures that the text is large enough for all swimmers to read from a safe distance.
  • Pool sign size of at least 1.5 feet wide and 2 feet tall – Along with using huge letters, making the sign large enough will help ensure that swimmers can read it from a safe distance. The required size of the pool rules sign is 1.5 feet wide and 2 feet tall (18″ X 24″). However, depending on the pool type and the message you want to pass across, the sign can be smaller or larger than this. As a rule of thumb, the more important the messages are, the bigger you make the pool rules sign.

Types of Pool Rules Sign

With so many different pool signs out there, it can be challenging to know which signs you should or shouldn’t include. You may need to first check with your local laws and regulations to determine the most applicable signs, especially specific design requirements. Here are the most common pool rules signs:

Custom

Custom signs are an excellent choice when you don’t want to stick to the standard signage. These signs are usually customized with graphics and text to help enhance your message. In addition, you can choose pool signs custom to your swimming location, including rules unique to your location, designs, or graphics to reflect your personality.

A customized pool sign like the Jacevoo Retro Wood Sign Pool Rules features a retro feel. It uses cool fonts and graphics to highlight important rules for swimmers. In addition, its contrasting colors keep the sign readable from a distance.

DIY

If you are a crafty or skillful person, you could choose to create your own pool rules sign. This is specifically helpful if you’re on a budget or need to save time. DIYing is also an excellent way to spend time with your family during summer vacations.

With DIY pool signs, you get to be creative, think of creative designs and colors, and create a sign that truly reflects your personality. This HBA Pool Rules Metal Sign is a perfect example of a DIY pool rules sign.

It uses stylish fonts and different font sizes to make the sign more attractive. You will need several tools such as metal board, spray paint, sealant, foam brush, and screws. You can easily find these materials at an arts and crafts store, or you could even use recycled materials.

Sale
HBA Pool Rules Metal Sign
185 Reviews
HBA Pool Rules Metal Sign
  • Thick, 24-gauge steel
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  • Eco-friendly process
  • This sign measures 16" x 12" (400 mm x 300 mm)
  • This is the indoor full shade version. For direct sunlight exposure please order item: HB7056SP.

Vintage

A vintage pool rules sign gives your swimming pool a vintage look. Vintage signs are usually made of wood or metal with distressed wording to provide it with an antique look. Such signs come in different shapes and sizes, too! You can choose from round, square or rectangular. They have a rusty, timeless feel that adds a vintage touch to your style.

If you want a vintage pool rules sign that lets you add your own design or message, you need to use retro fonts and styles. One such example is the YOMIA Pool Rules Tin Sign Vintage Pool Patio Wall Decoration Outdoor Swimming Pool Sign that has a rustic feel. It is made of a sturdy, rust-free aluminum material that’s weatherproof. You can hang it with ease using its mounting holes.

YOMIA Pool Rules Tin Sign
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Humorous

A good laugh can be a big mood booster. And if you want to keep your swimmers entertained and happy, it would help to include a pool rules sign that’s humorous. Humorous pool rules signs can also help ease tension in the event of an argument or fight between swimmers.

You can use classy, vintage fonts to create a humorous pool rules sign. A good example is the Monifith Humor Pool Rules Signs. It provides a funny way to caution swimmers from peeing in the pool.

Commercial

A commercial pool rules sign is especially useful if you’re managing a commercial pool. They can be customized to display your swim club or hotel’s logo. Commercial pool rules signs are usually made of vinyl, aluminum, or plastic, large, standard fonts, and pre-punched holes for easy fixing.

You can find generic ones or customize them. The Poolmaster Sign for Residential or Commercial Swimming Pools is an excellent example of a commercial pool rules sign. It uses bold colors and is made of sturdy plastic. The standard size makes it easy to read from a distance.

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Poolmaster Sign for Residential
881 Reviews
Poolmaster Sign for Residential
  • Pre-punched hanging holes for easy installation
  • Printed with fade resist UV ink
  • All weather plastic to withstand outdoor conditions
  • 18" x 24"
  • See dropdown box above for additional signs

Pool Safety Equipment Guidelines

Another critical pool rules sign is the Pool Safety Equipment Guidelines. This is a must-have pool sign to help prevent injuries while swimming. Swimmers need to be aware of the different safety equipment available in swimming pools. So this sign should include all equipment such as life jackets, pool ladders, emergency spots, etc.

The guidelines should be properly indicated by directing swimmers to the equipment’s area or location. An example of a safety equipment guidelines sign is the SmartSign – S-1441-PL-10 “Emergency Eyewash Station” Sign With Down Arrow to indicate where a swimmer can wash their eyes in case of an emergency in the swimming pool.

The most important step in making your pool rules sign is to find ample, visible space. Make sure the place is visible enough for swimmers to see the sign, and there is enough space for everyone to read it. It should be positioned so swimmers can easily refer to it whenever they need to. Finally, make sure that the background behind the sign gives it enough contrast so that swimmers can easily read what’s written on it.

SmartSign - S-1441-PL-10 "Emergency Eyewash Station" Sign With Down Arrow | 7" x 10" Plastic 10" x 7" Plastic
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Swimming Pool Rules Examples

Effectively sharing and displaying swimming pool rules can ensure no one gets seriously injured. Swimmers need to know their limits, and pool rules signs should be visible enough for swimmers to see while swimming. The following are several examples of swimming pool rules:

  • No running, jumping, or rough play is allowed in the pool
  • No diving allowed off the deck into shallow pool areas
  • Keep pets out of the pool area.
  • No food or drinks are allowed in the pool area
  • No glassware or bottles
  • Smoking on pool grounds is prohibited
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Don’t pee in the water
  • Shower before you use the pool
  • An adult should accompany Persons below the age of 14
  • No entry
  • No swimming allowed at dark
  • Warning – No lifeguard on duty
  • Diapers should be changed in the designated area and must have a tight-fitting protective covering
  • Don’t use the pool if you have a water transmittable disease

Additional Notes on Pool Signs

While we have covered most about pool signs, there are several other things you need to know:

  • Signs should be durable for all weather conditions, and message surfaces are clean and smooth, ready to accept paint or precut lettering adhesives.
  • Artwork or theming applied to the sign shall not invade the message panel. Signs must have a distinct border.
  • If needed, multiple signs may be used, and signs should complement each other and the specific pool area.
  • Signs should be consistent with brand identity but maintain a high readability level.
  • Signs should be legible from a distance – always choose large, high-contrast fonts and design so that swimmers can easily read what’s on the sign.

Pool Rules Sign FAQ

To help you know more about pool rules signs, here are some frequently asked questions you should know.

Where Should a Pool Safety Sign Be Placed?

Pool safety signs should be placed in a clearly visible area. Signs help swimmers identify important information, such as pool rules, emergency phone numbers, first aid station locations, etc. Ideally, a pool safety sign should be placed within 50 feet of the pool.

How Close Can Your Pool Be Built to Your Neighbor’s Property?

It is recommended to construct the pool at least 1,000 millimeters from the boundary. You can also consult your local city council before undertaking any pool construction activity to avoid conflicts with neighbors.

Do My Pool Signs Need to Be ADA Compliant?

The Americans with Disability Act (ADA) requires that pools are accessible to people with disabilities. Therefore, there must be an ADA-compliant accessible entry and exit route if you have a pool. This route must have handrails, a non-slip surface, and edge protection. ADA also prohibits discrimination based on disability, which means you must make sure that people who are disabled can access your pool safely.

Where Can I Order a Custom Pool Sign?

You can order custom pool signs from local sign makers or online eCommerce sites like Amazon or Etsy. Provide your design and specifications and they will make your custom signs according to these. You can choose the customized signs to be made out of aluminum, metal, plastic, or wood. The price of your custom pool signage is dependent on multiple factors.

The Bottom Line

Pool rules signs are an integral part of your pool’s safety. They act as signals of what is expected of people and what people can expect from each other. This is ideal to ensure that everyone in the pool area knows what they should and shouldn’t do while using the pool. Your pool rules signs should also be legible, visible, and durable.

Remember to place the signs at strategic areas in your pool property within 50 feet, like near the entrances and exits. Ensure the font size is large enough ( usually 4 inches) so that swimmers can read what’s on the sign easily. There are several types of pool rules signs you can choose from to suit your specific pool requirements for the best experience. Be sure to invest in one for your pool!

Pricing on this page was last updated on 2024-03-19