Let's face it, most of us are not lucky enough to have a swimming pool in our back garden, so when we go on vacation it's a rare treat to splash about in the toasty warm waters of an outdoor swimming pool.

Outdoor pools are best enjoyed in the sunshine, and to that end, there can be no better place to lie back in the crystal clear waters, staring at the dappled silhouette of a swaying palm tree and let your cares float away, than in everyone's favourite holiday destination, Florida.

And whilst not every hotel has it's own pool, if you choose to stay in the now increasingly popular choice of a private luxury villa, such as those advertised on the Florida Vacation Rentals Web Site Orlando Villas, you will most definitely be spoilt with not only stunning accommodation but your own private pool too.

However, as with all things watery, common sense must always be applied.

For some reason folks on vacation, who in their ordinary everyday lives might be the most sensible people on the planet, often forget to pack their common sense along with their sunscreen and flip flops !!!

This in itself is not a detrimental thing, except perhaps when it comes to pool safety.

Fortunately, Florida state law has stepped in to lend a helping hand by requiring rental villas with private pools to follow some very simple rules to ensure the well being and safety of their guests.

Naturally, it goes without saying that all children must always be supervised by an adult in and around any pool area. But in addition to that, you will find that your rental villa's pool is also clearly marked in terms of water depth, indicating both the shallow and deep ends.

Child alert pool alarms are also required to be fitted onto any door leading directly from the property into the pool area. This alarm will sound if opened by a small child to alert parents of the imminent danger.

A clear set of 'Pool Rules' will also be posted at the poolside, which you should read carefully before dipping your toes into the water.

Floatation devices such as water wings and inflatable rings are extremely popular with children, but it should always be remembered that these are not life saving devices. They are merely floating toys. Just because your child is wearing water wings, does not mean that it is safe to leave them to play in or by the pool.

Rough play and running on the pool deck is also a big 'No No', due to the obvious dangers of slipping and diving is also discouraged, as most pools only have a maximum depth of 6 foot.

To sum up, if treated with respect, and common sense is applied, your vacation swimming pool can be one of the highlights of your trip. Remember that small children learn by example, so if you as an adult can teach them to safely enjoy their swimming experience, it will be a lesson that will never be forgotten, and which ultimately could one day save their lives.