6 Tips for Planning a Killer 4th of July Party

6 Tips for Planning a Killer 4th of July Party

The nation’s independence day will be celebrated soon, and with that history so vital to our success as a country comes parties and backyard barbecues. Looking to throw a 4th of July party this year that will rival all others? We can help you plan. Because you’re a pool owner, you have an advantage over everyone else; let’s face it, no one wants to go to a party where there is no pool on a scorching sunny day.

Check out these tips to ensure your party goes off without a hitch.

Prep your pool. The last thing you want to do is wake up on the morning of the party and see that the pool is cloudy or green. Call your pool professional in advance to make sure the water is properly balanced. No only does this result in clearer water, it will prevent irritation to skin and eyes. Your pool expert will check for the right pH and sanitizer levels. Don’t neglect the area around your pool. Mow your lawn, plant some flowers, clean the patio and fix anything that may be broken, such as fences. Spray bees nests, too!

Plan your musical selection. What’s a great party without some killer tunes? You can’t go wrong with Top 40 music, but you could also throw in some Beach Boys, Jimmy Buffett and even a couple of patriotic songs thrown in for good measure.

Check the grill. A backyard full of hungry people is hardly the time to run out of gas for your grill. A couple of days before the party, make sure the tank is full and go get another full one to have just in case. Clean the grill inside and out. Plan your menu and go shopping for hamburgers and hot dogs, or get a little more adventurous and try smoked brisket or ribs.

Emphasize pool safety. It’s an unfortunate fact that small children drown in pools and other bodies of water in the summer while their parents are busy socializing. Make pool safety a #1 concern and make sure all your guests know your rules. Hire a lifeguard for big parties or designate rotating shifts for parents to watch the kids. Tell your guests what the depth of your pool is and go over swimming and diving rules. Make sure you have plenty of water bottles on hand to keep dehydration to a minimum.

A good host will leave out a few bottles of sunscreen and bug spray out

Provide sun protection. A good host will leave out a few bottles of sunscreen and bug spray for guests to ensure they are adequately protected. You’ll also want to designate a few shaded areas for small children or aging adults who really shouldn’t be out in the direct sun all day.

Plan fun pool games. Sure, the pool itself should provide enough play time for kids and adults alike, but having some planned activities ready to go can add to the fun. Try these games in the pool:

• Relay races
• Marco Polo
• Chicken fights
• Float races
• Water basketball and volleyball