The Best Safety Features for Gunite Pools
A custom gunite pool adds beauty, value, and enjoyment to your home—but safety should always be a top priority. Whether you have young children, pets, or frequent guests, incorporating the best safety features for gunite pools ensures peace of mind while preserving the luxury and functionality of your backyard oasis.
Gunite pools are built to last decades, and investing in proper safety measures from the start—or adding them during a renovation—protects both your loved ones and your property. In this guide, we’ll explore the most effective safety features every gunite pool owner should consider.
🛟 Why Pool Safety Matters
According to national safety statistics, drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental injury for children. Even strong swimmers can face unexpected risks in or around water. Beyond personal safety, installing proper pool safety features can:
Reduce liability risks
Lower homeowners insurance concerns
Meet local building codes and regulations
Increase resale value
Provide peace of mind for family gatherings
Safety and style are not mutually exclusive—you can incorporate modern features without compromising aesthetics.
🧱 1. Pool Fencing and Secure Gates
A pool fence is one of the most important and widely required safety features.
Key Fence Requirements:
Minimum height (typically 4–5 feet depending on local codes)
Self-closing, self-latching gates
No climbable surfaces near the fence
Lockable access points
Popular Fence Options:
Glass fencing for modern aesthetics
Aluminum fencing for durability and affordability
Decorative wrought iron for elegance
🔒 A properly installed fence creates a critical barrier that prevents unsupervised access.
🛑 2. Automatic Pool Covers
Automatic safety covers provide one of the highest levels of protection.
Benefits of Automatic Covers:
Supports weight to prevent accidental falls
Reduces evaporation and heat loss
Keeps debris out of the pool
Adds an extra layer of security
Unlike basic solar covers, safety covers are built with reinforced materials and track systems that allow them to fully seal the pool when not in use.
💡 Bonus: They also improve energy efficiency by retaining heat and reducing chemical usage.
🔔 3. Pool Alarms and Motion Sensors
Pool alarms provide alerts when unexpected movement is detected in or around the water.
Types of Pool Alarms:
Surface wave alarms – Detect water movement
Subsurface alarms – Sense pressure changes underwater
Gate alarms – Trigger when pool gates open
Wearable child alarms – Worn by children and activate upon water contact
These systems are especially valuable for families with small children.
📢 Alarms add a proactive layer of safety but should always be combined with supervision.
🪜 4. Non-Slip Pool Decking
Slippery pool decks are a major cause of accidents. Upgrading to non-slip decking materials significantly reduces fall risks.
Safe Decking Options:
Textured concrete
Stamped concrete with grip finish
Travertine pavers (naturally slip-resistant)
Rubberized pool deck coatings
If you’re renovating, resurfacing your pool deck is a smart safety improvement that also enhances visual appeal.
💡 5. Proper Pool Lighting
Adequate lighting is essential for nighttime safety.
Lighting Safety Enhancements:
LED underwater lighting for visibility
Step and bench lighting
Pathway lighting around the pool area
Motion-activated perimeter lights
Well-lit pools reduce trip hazards and make it easier to monitor swimmers after sunset.
🧯 6. Handrails and Grab Bars
Installing handrails and grab bars improves safety for swimmers of all ages, especially seniors.
Where to Install:
Near pool steps
At deep-end entries
Around spa entrances
Along beach entries or sloped surfaces
These features provide extra stability without detracting from your pool’s design.
🌊 7. Shallow Zones and Tanning Ledges
Design plays a role in safety as well. Gunite pools allow for custom shallow areas such as:
Tanning ledges
Baja shelves
Gradual beach entries
These areas provide safer spaces for children and less experienced swimmers.
🏖️ Beach entries eliminate the need for steps and allow for a gradual transition into deeper water.
🔄 8. Drain Covers and Anti-Entrapment Systems
Modern pool safety regulations require compliant drain covers that prevent suction-related injuries.
Important Features:
VGB-compliant drain covers
Dual drain systems
Automatic pump shut-off mechanisms
If your pool was built years ago, upgrading to compliant drain systems is essential for safety and legal compliance.
📱 9. Smart Pool Monitoring Systems
Technology now allows you to monitor pool safety remotely.
Smart Safety Features Include:
Camera monitoring systems
Remote alerts through smartphone apps
Water level and pump monitoring
Automated shut-off systems
These features add convenience and increased oversight when you’re away from home.
👀 10. Active Supervision and Safety Equipment
Even with every safety feature installed, active supervision remains essential.
Must-Have Poolside Equipment:
Life rings or flotation devices
Reaching poles
First aid kits
CPR training for household members
Safety is always strongest when physical barriers and technology are paired with responsible monitoring.
🏡 Make Safety a Priority with Harpeth Valley Hardscape
At Harpeth Valley Hardscape, we design and build custom gunite pools with safety and longevity in mind. Whether you’re constructing a new pool or upgrading an existing one, we can incorporate the best safety features for gunite pools seamlessly into your design.
From automatic covers and non-slip decking to integrated lighting and fencing, our team ensures your pool is not only beautiful, but secure and family-friendly.
📋 Fill out the form below to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can enhance the safety of your gunite pool today.
