Backyard Safety News You Can Use - Building Safety Month 2010

May 25, 2010

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) –The International Code Council Foundation is providing weekly tips and links during Building Safety Month 2010, as resources for consumers to save money and prevent disasters. The fourth week of Building Safety Month, May 23-31, is Backyard Safety Week.

Code Council Chief Executive Officer Rick Weiland reminds us that “with the approach of warmer weather we depend upon everything from decks to pools to equipment to be part of enjoying the season. But without making sure these items are safely designed and installed, all of us risk injury and property damage. Codes provide the foundation for a safe and enjoyable time in our own backyards and those of our neighbors and friends.”

As summer approaches, homeowners need to take the time to check their outdoor areas for potential safety hazards. While most people know that pools can be a safety hazard for children, there are lot more things to watch out for in your back yard such as barbecues and grills, lawn equipment and toys. Contact your local building department and find out whether local building codes require childproof fences and gates around pools and plan accordingly.

Below is a list of zero to low cost things and long term improvements homeowners can do to protect their home:

Zero Cost:

• Practice constant, adult supervision around any body of water, including pools and spas.
• Don't leave toys, tools and equipment in the yard.
• Reserve a spot on a wall or fence near the pool for lifesaving devices.

Low Cost:

• Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Keep rescue equipment and a phone next to swimming pools and spas for emergencies.
• Have a fire extinguisher available near a barbeque grill; learn how to properly use it for potential emergencies.

Long-Term Improvements:

• Replace old swimming pool and spa drain covers with new, safer dome-shaped covers.
• Install a fence and gate around trampolines, pools and spa areas to keep children safe—in many states it’s the law

For More Backyard Safety Tips Visit:

• Building Safety Month
• International Code Council
• International Code Council Foundation
  

First observed in 1980 as Building Safety Week, Building Safety Month is sponsored by BASF and by the International Code Council Foundation. The International Code Council Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the mission to promote public awareness of ideas‚ methods and technologies that encourage the construction of safe, durable and sustainable buildings and homes, reducing the devastating effects of building damages due to natural disasters and other tragedies.