A self-latching pool fence is the only thing that matters.

Yes, it’s that simple. Four-sided isolation fencing with a self-closing, self-latching gate is proven to reduce child drownings by more than 50%. Everything else—alarms, covers, inflatable barriers—is a distant second.

Pet safety mostly comes down to the same fence. A dog can’t climb it, a cat might, but that’s a different problem. If you have a pet that falls in and can’t get out, install a ramp or a floating escape platform. But the fence stops the fall in the first place.

Pool covers are nice but people forget to use them. Door alarms are helpful but they beep so often you’ll disable them. A fence is boring and effective. Spend the money there.

Everything else is a backup.