Enjoy Your July 4th Weekend

This weekend is traditionally the biggest weekend of the year for pool use.  In addition, with Independence Day falling on a weekend this year, the emphasis on pool use and backyard parties will be even greater.

If you are the pool owner, hopefully by now your plans are in place for this weekend – the yard is mowed, the food is planned, the guests are invited, and the pool is ready!  Following are some last minute tips to assure that your July 4th pool party will be one to be remembered.

Be sure your pool is ready

To avoid last minute water problems such as cloudy water or a green pool, be sure that your pool water is balanced – have it professionally analyzed at a pool store either today or tomorrow.  In addition, this preventative maintenance will help prevent eye and skin irritation that sometimes accompanies a weekend of swimming in a pool of unbalanced water.  Eye and skin irritation is usually due to insufficient sanitizer levels or incorrect pH.

Prepare your pool area

In addition to preparing the pool, the area surrounding the pool will also probably need some attention.  Mowing, trimming plants, cleaning the patio and other maintenance details can make a difference.  Consider using container plants in the pool area to help dress it up.  Also, do not forget to get rid of pests such as wasps & ants.

Decorating

Decorations and music really help set the mood.  Seasonal decorations really can add to the feel of the party.  Paper products, such as tablecloths, plates, cups, and napkins are also available in a pool party theme.  Party and craft stores, such as PJ’s Party Supply, Party City, and Hobby Lobby, are an excellent source for these festive decorations.  For evening parties, try stringing Christmas lights along the fence and in the trees and shrubbery or use tiki torches.

Music

Patriotic music or beach music (try some Beach Boys or Jimmy Buffet) can really add to pool parties.  It is available online or at music stores.

Food

Firing up the grill and serving hamburgers and hot dogs is always a safe bet.  For the more courageous, smoke a brisket or some ribs.  And for dessert, nothing represents summer and pool party more than homemade ice cream.

Eye & skin irritation and sun protection

As you and your guests enjoy the pool party, you should be aware of the possibility of eye & skin irritation and sun protection.  Eye drops will usually provide relief for irritated eyes.  To treat irritated skin, take a shower and then apply a moisturizing lotion.  Sun protection is another important consideration.  Applying sunscreen thoroughly and liberally is the key.  Many times we overlook the fact that we need a waterproof sunscreen for use in pools.  Men with thinning hair should be extremely careful and apply sunscreen liberally to the top of the head or wear a hat.

Activities

Although providing a pool and some food is usually enough to provide for your visiting guests, activities such as pool games can really add to the party.  There are many pool games that can be found on the internet at www.thesource4ym.com/swimming-pool-games/

The main thing to remember is that planning and delegation are the keys to having a good party that even you, the host, can enjoy.  Have a great weekend!