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Blockwatch Beat: Staying safe this summer
We want to be safe and have fun during summer, but the season has its own set of safety rules. Swimming smart It seems every home with kids has a backyard pool. Are you aware of the rules that go with that pool that you bought at the store? Here are some basic city codes that must be followed for an above-ground pool 42 inches deep or more: • All fences must be at least 48 inches high measured from the ground and may not have any opening with a diameter of 4 inches or more. • All gates must be self-closing, self-latching and lockable. • The fence gate must require a key for entry and should be locked whenever the pool is closed. Even wading pools must have a fence at least 36 inches high. I know that it’s tempting to not go through this trouble, but to be a responsible pool owner you must think of safety first. If you don’t follow these codes and someone gets hurt your homeowners insurance might not cover you. Also, could you live with yourself if someone got hurt? Two more basic rules: never swim alone and never leave children unattended. If you see an unsafe pool, report it to the City Call Center at “3-1-1.” Bicycling smart Summer means children will be riding bikes. Here are a few important laws for riding bicycles. • It is a law in Columbus for all children under the age of 18 to wear a bicycle helmet. • Cyclists must follow all of the same laws as motorized vehicles. This includes riding on the right side of the road and stopping at traffic lights and stop signs. • Cyclists are required to use legal and proper hand signals for turns and lane changes. • Bicycles are required to have head and tail lights and reflectors to ride between dusk and dawn. • Small children should never be allowed to ride in streets. When riding on the roads with cars and trucks, even a small mistake can be tragic. It is parents’ responsibility to ensure children know and follow these rules. Don’t hesitate to call 645-4545 if you see unsafe bicyclist or underage children riding in dangerous situations. You might save their life. To find additional city codes for backyard pools and bicycle laws, visit www.publicservice.columbus.gov
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