Summer is the time for fun in the sun, but steps must be taken to ensure that it’s done safely. The summer time brings its own challenges with increased traffic at the community pool, more residents grilling, and preparing for the hurricane season. There are steps you can take to ensure you are increasing summer safety at your manufactured home community and reducing your liability.
Pool Safety
Rules and Signage – Post the pool rules in a highly visible area at the pool entrance. The rules should include:
- All Children Must be Supervised by an Adult
- No Running
- No Diving
- No Glass Containers
Other Pool Safety Precautions
- Check the gate and fence around the pool for damage. All fences must be 6’ or more and unscalable. Pool area gates must be self-locking. There are ZERO mistakes allowed on pool safety.
- Ensure emergency equipment, such as first aid kits and life rings, is near the pool and easily accessible.
- Use anti-slip coatings on the concrete surrounding the pool to prevent slips and falls.
Community Amenities
Your outdoor community amenities will probably see an increase in traffic as well. Make sure you are up to date on maintenance and repair any damaged playground equipment. To prevent heat-related health issues, install shade structures, such as canopies, shade sails, or umbrellas, over picnic tables, sitting areas, and playgrounds.
Fire Prevention
Grilling Safety – Whether the grills are a part of the community amenities or personal grills, educate residents on safe grilling practices:
- Always have the grill at least 10 feet away from homes or other buildings
- Ensure the grill is on a flat surface to prevent tipping
- Avoid grilling near shrubs or under trees
- Never leave the grill unattended
If the grill is part of the community amenities, post clear signage that states grilling rules and instructions on how to use the grill. Also, install a fire extinguisher near the grill that is easily accessible in case of emergency.
Electrical Safety – With the increasing temperatures, residents will be kicking up the AC. This can put a strain on the community’s circuits. Have a professional electrician inspect your electrical systems to make sure they are working properly and can handle the extra load.
4th of July – While residents might be tempted to celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, it’s just not practical in a manufactured home community. Make sure residents know that fireworks are not allowed on community property. Encourage residents to see a local fireworks show by adding a list of shows to your summer newsletter or posting a sign in the office.
Storm Preparedness
With the summer comes hurricanes and severe storms. To prepare for the storms, make sure:
- Community alerts are set up and working properly
- Loose items, such as picnic tables, pool chairs, and trash bins, are secured before a storm hits
- Send out an emergency and evacuation plan to your residents and staff
Send a Summer Newsletter
Encouraging your residents to practice summer safety at your manufactured home community and ensuring they know the rules of the community will help prevent accidents and reduce your liability.
What to include in the summer newsletter:
- Remind residents of heat-related illness and prevention
- List pool rules and the rules for the other community amenities
- Announce summer community events
- Include storm preparedness and emergency plans
- Add a list of grilling safety practices
For more safety tips for your manufactured home community, visit our resources page here, and learn more in our blog here.