Whether it’s sliding down a water slide, diving off the diving board, or simply plunging into the refreshing water from the pool’s edge, people without disabilities have a whole host of options for entering their pools. This isn’t the case, however, for the millions of people living with disabilities. Many of them simply have no way to safely get into or out of non-ADA compliant backyard pools.
Though they may not often complain, it probably doesn’t make them feel very good to have to sit on the sidelines and watch everyone else enjoying a cool, refreshing dip in the pool without them (see Part 1). If you add some of this smart, practical handicap accessibility equipment to your pool, your disabled friends and family members could end up feeling more included.
Include a Portable Access Ladder or Two for Convenient Pool Entry and Exit
Portable access ladders are another option for assisting people with disabilities who would like to enter the pool. They have the advantage of being able to be quickly moved from point A to point B depending on where you need to place them for any given occasion. They can also be removed and stored fairly easily using a dolly, and many of them actually come with dollies for just this purpose.
This type of set up is ideal if you have an already existing pool and would like to add some handicap accessibility for certain occasions where you know it will be utilized, but you’d also like the option of being able to remove and store the ladders away for times when they won’t be needed. The best portable access ladders come with side skirting and deck adapters that serve as a deterrent to someone being trapped underneath them in the water. Be sure to look for this feature if you’re in the market for a portable access ladder for your pool.
Add a Permanent Set of Stairs for Those Who Can Walk But Need Extra Help
Some people with disabilities are able to stand and walk, but they may not be steady enough on their feet or strong enough with their arms to use a ladder when entering and exiting the pool. These individuals will be greatly helped if you install a stairway leading into your pool. This stairway must have a sturdy set of handrails that reach specific measurement requirements if it’s going to be truly ADA-Compliant.
Another important aspect of safety pool stairs is their treads. Make sure each stair tread is no less than 11 inches wide and that they are all the same size. Each stair should also be the same height. By gripping the handrails and moving carefully along this slip-resistant staircase, getting in and out of the pool could be doable even for people who have difficulty walking without the assistance of a cane or walker. If you plan to have someone with mobility difficulties who will be using your pool on a regular basis, a permanent staircase would be ideal.
Both portable access ladders and permanent pool stairs can give your disabled friends greater access to your pool. In our next article, we’ll consider a few additional options that could make your pool more handicap accessible.
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