07/07/2026
Planning some fun at home this summer? Make sure your backyard is safe for all your favorite activities by using this summer safety checklist.
Pool safety
• Never leave children unattended
• Kids should never be alone in or near a pool (even if they know how to swim)
• Sign your kids up for swimming lessons
Learn emergency skills
• Young children should learn when to get help. Older children and adults should learn CPR and first aid
• Keep a first-aid kit, ring buoys and reaching poles nearby. Easy access to these items could be lifesaving
Install a safety fence
• Make sure your pool safety fence covers all pool sides and has self-closing gates. Also, install locks and alarms on doors with pool access.
• Create and post safety rules and enforce them.
Trampoline safety
• Add safety features
• Make sure your trampoline has padding and netting. An enclosed trampoline can help prevent falls
• Maintain your trampoline
• Inspect your trampoline regularly for missing pads, tears, exposed springs and other issues that could cause injury
• Enforce safety rules: Only one jumper at a time to reduce risk of injury
Playground safety
• Inspect your playground equipment regularly
• Create a safe landing
• Teach playground rules
• Supervise young children at play
Review your home liability insurance limits
Even if you follow all these tips, accidents happen. Keep your liability insurance coverage updated (and consider adding an umbrella liability policy). If you add a pool, trampoline or playground to your yard, meet with your insurance agent to see if you need to increase your home liability coverage. Stay safe and have fun this summer!
Ben Nagy
Dixon office 815-973-4974
Paw Paw office 815-627-9357
