Are Floating Pool Lights Safe For Kids And Pets

 

Pool accessories like floating pool ball lights can transform your backyard oasis into a vibrant and enchanting space. These lights not only add aesthetic appeal but also enhance the atmosphere during evening swims. However, as with any pool accessory, safety is a key consideration, especially when kids and pets are involved. So, are floating pool lights safe for everyone? Let’s dive into the details and examine the potential risks and precautions to take.


What Are Floating Pool Lights?

Floating pool lights are often battery-operated or rechargeable lights designed to float on the surface of your pool. These lights are available in a variety of designs and colours, with some resembling glowing balls, while others may take the shape of flowers, spheres, or other creative forms. The lights create an attractive ambiance at night, making your pool area feel magical. However, they need to be used with care, particularly when children and pets are around.

The Risk of Electrical Hazards

One of the main concerns when it comes to any pool light, floating or otherwise, is the risk of electrical hazards. While most floating pool ball lights are designed with waterproof casings and are typically safe for use in pools, there’s always a potential risk if the lights are damaged or improperly maintained.

Safety tips to minimise risk:

Choose high-quality lights: Make sure the lights are rated for pool use and have undergone rigorous safety testing.


Regular inspections: Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in the casing or exposed wires, before each use.


Avoid using damaged lights: If you notice that the light is no longer functioning correctly, replace it immediately to avoid any risk of electrical malfunctions.

Ingestion and Choking Hazards for Kids and Pets

Floating pool lights are often small enough for children or pets to grab or carry around. If they manage to pull one out of the pool, there’s a risk of accidental ingestion or choking, especially if the light has loose parts, batteries, or other small components.

Precautions to take:

Supervise play: Always supervise children and pets around the pool, particularly when floating lights are in use.


Secure lights properly: When not in use, keep floating pool lights safely stored away from the pool area, so curious kids or pets can’t access them.

The Danger of Pool Side Falls

Another concern is the risk of children or pets slipping on wet surfaces while trying to play with or reach for floating lights. Though the lights themselves don’t pose a direct threat, the wet surfaces around the pool can increase the risk of falls.

Safety measures to reduce slips and falls:

Non-slip pool decking: Consider installing non-slip surfaces around the pool to prevent falls.

Keep the pool area clear: Make sure that there are no obstructions around the pool that could increase the risk of accidents.

Are Floating Pool Lights Safe for Pets?

Pets, especially dogs, tend to be curious creatures. If your pet is a swimmer or spends time around the pool, it’s important to ensure that the floating lights are safe for them. Ingesting a damaged light or biting into it could be harmful, particularly if the light contains toxic materials like batteries or chemicals.

Pet safety tips:

Avoid overly bright lights: Some floating lights are extremely bright, which can startle pets and make them uneasy around the pool.

Supervise pets: Just like with children, always supervise pets when they are near the pool, particularly when floating lights are in use.

Final Thoughts

In general, floating pool ball lights can be a safe and fun addition to your pool area if used correctly. By ensuring that the lights are high-quality, regularly maintained, and securely stored, you can enjoy their beauty while keeping your family and pets safe. Always keep an eye on your kids and pets to prevent accidents, and remember that safety should always come first when using any pool accessories.