Safety Guidelines
Safety is a shared responsibility.
These guidelines set the baseline for safe bookings. Host rules and the Safety Center add more detail for each pool.
How PoolSpaces works
We are a marketplace that facilitates bookings and payments between guests and hosts. We do not own, operate, staff or supervise any pool.
Hosts are independent owners or authorised operators. They are responsible for their premises, equipment, compliance and the condition of the space during a booking.
Guests are responsible for their own group, supervising children, following host rules and using the pool at their own risk.
1. General principle
Swimming and using a private pool carry inherent risk. PoolSpaces does not guarantee safety. Everyone who uses the platform must act reasonably to reduce risk to themselves and others.
2. Host baseline
- Keep the pool, water, decks, gates and lighting in safe condition.
- Provide depth markings and a clearly identified shallow end.
- Keep a reaching aid or flotation device and a first-aid kit visible and accessible.
- Lock away chemicals, pumps, covers and maintenance equipment.
- Be reachable during the booking, whether or not you are on site.
3. Guest baseline
- Read the host's rules and safety details before you book.
- Bring at least one confident adult swimmer and never swim alone.
- Actively supervise children at all times; designate a sober water watcher.
- Keep to the booked guest count and do not bring unregistered visitors.
- Report hazards to the host immediately and stop using the pool if it feels unsafe.
4. Alcohol and drugs
Alcohol is only permitted where the host allows it and never for people under 18. Anyone supervising children must remain sober. Swimming while intoxicated is prohibited. Illegal drugs are not allowed on any booking.
5. Emergencies
In a life-threatening emergency, call emergency services first. In Lusaka, Police 999, Ambulance 991, Fire 993. PoolSpaces is not an emergency service.
6. Incident reporting
Injuries, unsafe conditions, damage, harassment or rule violations should be reported through the platform or to findpoolspaces@gmail.com. Reporting to PoolSpaces is not a substitute for contacting emergency services or the police.
Legal review required
This section is a working draft. Final legal language, jurisdiction-specific clauses and compliance wording must be reviewed and approved by qualified legal counsel before publication.
Relevant to: Hosts, Guests, PoolSpaces
- Review required safety equipment, signage and fencing standards under local law.
- Confirm host liability, duty of care and guest-waiver requirements.
- Add emergency-response and first-aid expectations for rural or remote listings.