Backyard Pool Liability in Ohio: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Posted in Accident & Injury, Health & Wellness, Premises Liability on June 2, 2025
Summer in Ohio means backyard pool season is in full swing. Whether you’re planning family swim days or inviting friends over to cool off, having a pool can make your home the place to be. But it also comes with serious responsibility.
If someone gets hurt in or around your pool, you could be held legally responsible, especially if safety precautions weren’t followed. Understanding how pool injuries and liability work in Ohio can help you protect yourself and your guests.
5 Pool Safety Tips That Help Prevent Injuries and Legal Trouble
1. Put Up a Fence or Barrier
In most parts of Ohio, fences or barriers are required by law to keep people, especially kids, from accessing the pool when it’s not supervised. Make sure the fence is at least four feet tall, with a gate that closes and latches on its own. Check your local jurisdiction for specific requirements beyond Ohio’s standards.
2. Always Watch the Pool
Never assume someone else is paying attention. Designate an adult to actively supervise the pool at all times, especially when kids are swimming. Stay off your phone and stay focused. Accidents happen quickly and often without much warning.
3. Know CPR and Basic First Aid
If something goes wrong, a quick response can save a life. At least one person nearby should know how to perform CPR. It’s smart to have babysitters, frequent guests, or older kids get certified, too. Find a CPR certification course near you.
4. Keep Your Pool and Surroundings in Good Shape
Poor maintenance can lead to injuries and lawsuits. Check the area regularly for loose tiles, slippery spots, exposed wires, or broken pool equipment. Keep walkways clear and fix anything that could cause someone to trip, fall, or get hurt.
5. Light It Up and Keep It Clear
Make sure your pool area is well-lit if people swim at night. Remove toys, floats, and clutter from around the pool’s edge so no one trips. Use non-slip materials on decks and stairs to avoid preventable slips.
Can You Be Sued If Someone Gets Hurt in Your Pool?
Yes. Under Ohio premises liability laws, homeowners can be held responsible for injuries that happen on their property, including in a pool. Common injury claims include:
- Slip and falls
- Diving accidents
- Drownings or near-drownings
- Electrical shocks from lighting or faulty wiring
Even if someone was trespassing, you could still be liable, especially if the injured person is a child. Pools are considered an “attractive nuisance,” meaning homeowners must take steps to keep kids out when no one is around.
When to Call a Pool Injury Lawyer
If you were injured at someone else’s pool, it’s worth speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Ohio. You may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term medical care or emotional trauma
A lawyer can walk you through your options and help you figure out what’s next.
Talk to Elk + Elk About Your Pool Injury Case
At Elk + Elk, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys has helped Ohio families through all types of accident cases, including pool-related injuries. We’re here to help you understand your rights and protect your future.
Call 1-800-ELK-OHIO or visit elkandelk.com for a free case review.