So a solar cover, do I need one?

[bbb]

I'm worried to use a solar cover - afraid of kids falling in - won't it wrap around a person and sufficate them? - hard to swim with a bunch of plastic wrapped around your body. Maybe I am just a paranoid mommy

What shape is your (soon to be) pool? Since you are just installing it you could install a sliding electrical safety cover. I have no idea how much they cost, but it is an option you can look into. Here is one example. I personally use a solar cover, and instruct kids to be away from the pool whether a cover is on or not. Solar covers save on heating costs, chemical costs (Yes, Bowlin, that means less bleach), and water costs - so they are a huge environmental asset to pool ownership. If I was building a new pool and could afford one, though, I would seriously consider an automatic safety cover.

However, since you are in NC (and also Simmons99, Florida] you have less of a need for one than those of us who live further north or in dryer climates (where there is lots of evaporation!)