A blog visitor writes: I suspect my neighbor kids are sneaking into my backyard pool when my family is away on vacation. I don’t want to stir up the pot and make anybody angry, and I’m not 100% sure this is happening, but I’ve repeatedly found candy wrappers around the pool and other signs that something is happening when we are away. I don’t have any security camera currently pointed at the pool area either. Any recommendations on what I might be able to do?
Thank you for submitting your question! If you suspect that kids from your neighborhood are sneaking into your backyard pool while you’re away, taking careful steps to document what is actually taking place and to prevent such further occurrences would indeed be in the best interest of everyone involved. This helps to maintain your property while keeping good relations with neighbors. You also want to be diligent to minimize your own liability in the event an accident on your property and in your pool were to occur while you were away.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Intelligent Home Security Systems
Investing in a smart home security system could be an excellent option. Look for systems that integrate well with a variety of mobile devices, allowing for live viewing and recording capabilities (i.e. easily check in on your pool while you are on vacation at the beach or riding the cruise ship). Having a visual surveillance system in place would help to confirm if anyone is entering your property without your consent.
You can opt for motion sensor cameras, which would only activate when movement is detected. This saves unnecessary power consumption & internet bandwidth and could give you the evidence you need.
Note: Make sure you understand privacy laws in your state before installing a camera that might capture the activities around your adjacent neighbors’ properties.
Advantages of a home security/camera system:
- Evidence collection
- Deterrent to trespassers
- Peace of mind
2. Setting up Security Signs
Even if you don’t have a full-fledged home security system, just displaying signs that say something along the lines of “Security Video Camera in Operation” or “24 Hours Video Surveillance” can serve as a deterrent. This can make possible trespassers think twice.
3. Enhanced Fencing and/or Pool Covers
If you don’t already have a fence around your property, consider building one. It can deter potential trespassers and provide added security.
Consider a pool cover as well. Pool covers can deter trespassers and protect your pool from debris.
4. Install Lighting in the Pool Area
Illuminating your pool area can discourage trespassers. Motion sensor lights can startle uninvited guests during the nighttime hours and leave them feeling exposed and unwelcome.
5. Talk to Your Neighbors
You could mention in passing to your neighbors that you’ve noticed signs of someone possibly using your pool while you were away. They might keep an eye on your property when you’re not there.
The goal here is to take subtle, proactive measures rather than outright confronting your neighbors, especially since you’re not sure who the culprits might be.
6. Installing Alarms
Though it may be a bit extreme for some, using alarms that notify when someone enters your property (i.e. triggered by someone going through the gate to your pool, motion in your backyard, entering the pool, etc.) might be an effective way to prevent unwanted activity.
Remember, any action taken should be non-confrontational and respectful of your neighbors. In the event that you gather undeniable proof that your neighbors’ kids are the culprits, it would be best to approach the situation calmly with their parents. It’s possible that they are unaware of their children’s activities and would appreciate knowing. Through implementing these steps above, you should be able to better control and monitor your pool area without causing unnecessary friction with your neighbors.
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