We all like a little swim (or a paddle if you’re a non-swimmer) and if the British weather is up to its usual stormy tricks then a trip to an indoor pool’s in order. If you haven’t got your own, then a local leisure centre or spa will more than suffice.

If you do own a pool, be it for business or for personal pleasure, the compulsory health and safety requirements we've all come to loathe – but at the same time appreciate – need to be implemented. As long as you follow these five recommendations you’ll be operating a very safe pool indeed. The last thing people want to be swimming in is a pool that could endanger their life, especially if they have small children. Aside from keeping your pool safe at a chemical level with chlorine tablets, here are some non-chemical related tips!

Keep the pool area blocked off

For example, installing a lockable gate will mean that nobody can sneak in without paying or when the pool isn't officially open. It’s easy to think that if an accident did happen it’d be their own foolish fault, but their actions could also endanger other people’s lives. Such a simple thing as a gate can be a lifesaver.

Instigate an emergency prevention plan

Putting up signs and making leaflets available which detail what to do in case someone is drowning will put you, your employees if you have them, and swimmers themselves at ease. An established safety plan isn't just for show – they may just mean that someone isn't knocked out permanently if they suddenly decide it’s a good idea to dive into the shallow end.

Get the right balance of swimming pool chemicals

Every pool needs to be cleansed with chlorine, be it in tablet form or granules. But it’s not a simple matter of dumping some in your water and assuming it’ll do the job – a specific balance is required. The level of chlorine determines the water’s pH level and stops the build-up of bacteria and algae. If people ever find that their eyes are stinging, it’s often due to a pH imbalance.

Promote adult supervision of child swimmers

Children love going to the pool and acting like loose cannons to impress their friends – but don’t allow it to go too far. Have a policy whereby children aren't allowed in the pool area without a parent or guardian and include a section in your emergency prevention plan which specifically covers child safety.

Put on swimming classes

These don’t just have to cover how to swim for the non-swimmers – they can also cover how to keep safe and all sorts of pool-related information. There are many parents out there who would appreciate more than just a sign on the wall when it comes to teaching their child safety, and in-class practical demonstrations should see them right.