The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Aboveground/Onground Swimming Pool - An Essential Safety Guide-Mandatory Reading
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The Sensible Way to Enjoy
Your Aboveground/Onground
Swimming Pool
Buster Crabbe Swimming Pools
An Essential Safety Guide—Mandatory Reading
It is your responsibility to enforce the rules of safety.Preface
This booklet has been prepared by
the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA)
to inform you about general safe
use, operation and maintenance
of your pool. It represents the
collective expert safety knowledge of
the Aboveground and Onground pool
manufacturing industry, however, it
does not address aspects of pool
design, operation and maintenance.
Please refer to individual
manufacturer instruction manuals
for more specific details on product
installation, use, maintenance and
safety. Keep them, along with this
booklet, for ready use and reference
and be sure to pass them along to
future owners or renters.
Aboveground/onground swimming
pools are fun—but along with the
fun comes responsibility. Be sure
that good times are safe times.
Establish rules and enforce them.
Supervise your pool.
Intex Recreation Corp.
Special thanks to members of the PHTA-4 Aboveground/Onground
Residential Swimming Pools Standard Writing Committee (SWC):
Bestway (USA) Inc. Intex Recreation Corp.
Blue Torrent Pool Products Latham Pool Products
Buster Crabbe Swimming Pools Polygroup Limited
Champlain Plastics Inc. Radiant Pools
Confer Plastics, Inc. Teddy Bear Pools & Spas, Inc.
International Association of Plumbing U. S. Consumer Product Safety
and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Commission (CPSC)
International Code Council (ICC)
2 ©2018 Pool & Hot Tub AllianceThe Sensible Way to Enjoy Your
Aboveground/Onground Swimming Pool
Congratulations on becoming an safety information in this booklet should
aboveground/onground swimming pool be reviewed with children and guests
owner! Your pool can give you, your before using the pool.
family and guests many years of fun and
relaxation. Sensible use of the product It is the pool owner’s responsibility to
is the key to safety. It is the pool owner’s secure the pool against unauthorized,
responsibility to provide competent unsupervised or unintentional entry.
supervision for the pool’s safe use, Remember, pool misuse can result in
operation, and maintenance. serious injury and/or be dangerous to
life and health.
This booklet contains important safety
information you should know about First-time users run the highest risk
operating and maintaining your pool. of injury! Before they enter the pool,
It will help you understand some of inform them of the safety rules.
the causes of pool-related accidents
and how to prevent them. It is your
responsibility to be sure that your family By carefully reading this booklet,
and guests use the pool sensibly and
safely. you may save the life of a child or
prevent serious harm to yourself,
In addition to this booklet, it is
family members, or friends. It is your
important to read and keep all of the
operating instructions, owners’ manuals responsibility to learn and understand
and warranties for your pool and its safety principles and rules. To ensure
equipment. Clearly understand and
practice the specifics of safe operation safety, every pool owner must read this
and proper maintenance, which this booklet and implement these
publication provides. Keep this booklet
safe practices.
on file for your own reference and pass
it along to future owners or renters. The
Intex Recreation Corp.
3Table of Contents
Good Reasons for
Thinking Safety First 5
No Diving 5
Guidelines for
Using Your Pool 6
Supervision and
Layers of Protection 6
Swimming Ability 8
Drowning Prevention
and Safety Tips 8
Exercise and Fitness 10
Entertaining 10
Drink Responsibly 12
Overall Safe Operation and
Maintenance of Your
Aboveground/Onground Pool 13
Equipment In and
Around Your Pool 13
ecommended Use of
R
Professionals 22
Additional Consumer
Safety Information 23
Buster Crabbe Swimming Pools
4Good Reasons for Thinking Safety First
Informed users are concerned about or applied by the manufacturer. As
safety because serious injuries and even the pool owner, it is your responsibil
death can result from unsafe use of ity to maintain these signs and make
aboveground pools, pool equipment and sure they are not covered, removed, or
associated products. obscured by a deck or other obstruction.
If the signs become faded or worn, are
Important! No Diving obstructed, or are removed or damaged
in any way that makes them unreadable
or inaccessible, it is your responsibility
to replace these signs with similar signs
which display the risks in both text and
icon format. Do not allow the use of
your pool without visible “No Diving”
signs in place.
Paralysis - Do not dive, jump, or slide
into your aboveground/onground
pool. It is not deep enough for these
activities! Paralysis, severe injury
Aboveground/Onground swimming or death can result. DON’T LET THIS
pools are designed for swimming and HAPPEN TO YOU!
wading only. They are not deep enough
for diving, jumping or sliding. Do not Diving, jumping or sliding into an
use diving boards, slides, trampolines aboveground pool is prohibited. If you
or any other similar objects or plat jump into the pool, you could seriously
form on aboveground/onground injure your back or neck or hurt others.
pools. Diving, jumping, or sliding is If you dive or slide into the pool, you
prohibited, is extremely dangerous could hit your head on the bottom or
and these actions can easily result in side, sustaining a spinal cord injury
and possibly becoming paralyzed from
severe injury, death or paralysis.
the neck down for the rest of your
life! A number of people who ignored
In an aboveground/onground pool,
these rules and chose to dive are now
diving, jumping or sliding is prohibited paralyzed! The facts show that many of
because the pool is not deep enough these people were experienced divers!
for it. Impress upon all swimmers Inform family and guests who come to
before they enter the pool that you will enjoy your pool of the safety rules you
not allow diving, jumping, or sliding in have established. DON’T DIVE, JUMP
your aboveground/ onground pool. OR SLIDE! Practice safety. Remember,
it is the responsibility of the parent,
SIGNAGE. All aboveground/onground caretaker and pool owner to prevent
pools should be labeled with “No accidents.
Diving” signs supplied by the manu
facturer and affixed as recommended
5Guidelines for Using Aboveground/Onground
Swimming Pools
As a pool owner, you may be legally your pool. Never leave children with
liable for the safety of all persons who caretakers or supervisors unless they
use your pool. Be sure your insurance are capable and responsible in the
policy is updated to include ownership pool environment. The number one root
of your pool. You are responsible for the cause of child drownings is distraction.
safety of all persons who use your pool. Frequently, these tragedies occur when a
party or family get together is occurring,
Facing ownership responsibilities does and all the adults think another adult is
not mean taking the fun out of using supervising the pool.
your pool. If you apply safety practices
and use good judgment, you will find It is a good idea to designate a backup
that the benefits of a pool can far for times when the primary supervisor
outweigh the risks. Here are some is unavailable. (When one supervisor is
guidelines for using your aboveground/ called away, i.e., to answer the door bell,
onground swimming pool. another supervisor must be appointed
immediately.) The primary supervisor
Supervision must not leave the area, even for a
minute, unless another supervisor is
LAYERS OF PROTECTION – Never given the sole task of taking over the
leave the pool unsupervised. When supervision responsibility. Never assume
supervision is not available, even for a that a backup supervisor has taken
moment, close the pool. over when the primary supervisor is
called away, i.e., to answer the door
Supervision is the primary layer of bell, use the rest room, or attend to a
protection and the key to reducing non-swimming child: another supervisor
the number of submersion incidents. must be appointed immediately.
Appoint one responsible adult as a
“designated water watcher.” One indi If you must leave the pool area, even for
vidual must assume primary responsi one minute, take children with you. One
bility for constant visual supervision lapse in supervision can spell tragedy.
of the pool. The supervisor must study Do not allow anyone of any age to swim
the contents of this booklet as well as without a “designated watcher” actively
any instructions from the pool man supervising. Examples of good safety
ufacturer and be thoroughly familiar with behavior by adults are important to
all facets of the safe operation of the educating and safeguarding children.
pool. He or she will take responsibility Remember to secure, lock, or remove
for communicating safety information the ladder and store it away from the
to all persons who enter the pool. pool to prevent access when the pool
Supervision should be continuous when is not to be used.
the pool is in use. The supervisor or
“designated water watcher” is respon When the pool is not in use, the pool
sible for enforcing “house rules” for owner is responsible for safeguarding
the pool to prevent unauthorized access.
6As a general rule, one designated water of any sound of distress assure you
watcher cannot supervise more than 5 that nothing is wrong – thrashing and
children at one time. When more than 5 screaming while drowning often does
children are swimming, it is advisable to not occur.
add more designated water watchers.
Pools are attractive to children, who
Draw up these rules from information must be kept away from them in
in this booklet and other safety and the absence of adult supervision.
maintenance information provided by Remember, these layers of protection
the manufacturer or dealer. These rules will only delay and may not prevent a
should cover such things as the proper toddler from entering the pool area.
use of pool games, the consumption Supervision is the only way to prevent
of food and alcoholic beverages, an accident.
maintenance, the use of electrical
appliances and the handling of Gates and doors, including sliding glass
chemicals. Establish rules immediately. patio doors, should be self-closing and
Write them in simple language and post self-latching to prevent unauthorized
them near the pool where they are easy and unsupervised entry and use of the
to see. These rules should be clearly pool area by children. Alarms similar to
communicated to and understood by all burglar alarms may be placed on the
persons, young and old, who use your doors to alert caretakers of unauthorized
pool. Most importantly, consistently entry to the pool area. (The inside latch
enforce these rules. should be above the reach of toddlers
or young children.)
BARRIERS – The ANSI/APSP/ICC-8
American National Standard for Model Fences are not child proof, however,
Barrier Code for Residential Swimming they do provide layers of protection
Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs establishes for a child when there is a lapse in
layers of protection to complement adult supervision. Fences give parents
the requirement for constant adult additional time to find a child before
supervision of young children around the unexpected can occur. Only adult
aquatic environments. A Model supervision can prevent drowning
Residential Pool Enclosure By-law for accidents. All layers of protection
Canadian Municipalities is available must be kept in good working order at
from the PHTCC. all times. Remember to secure, lock
or remove the ladder and store it away
At times, children will do the unex from the pool to prevent access when
pected, catching their supervisors off the pool is not to be used.
guard. Additional layers of protection
such as a fence, wall or natural barrier Check with your state, provincial, and
of sufficient height are used to deter local government to learn their specific
unauthorized and unsupervised people requirements concerning barriers and
out of your pool. other layers of protection around pools.
If specific requirements do not exist,
All too frequently, the sound of a child contact PHTA for the ANSI/APSP/ICC-8
drowning is silence. There is little to American National Standard for Model
no sound, because they are under Barrier Code for Residential Swimming
water. Don’t let silence or the lack Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs and the PHTA
7brochure entitled “Layers of Protection.” Teach Your Children to Swim! Three
A Model Residential Pool Enclosure to five years of age is the best time
By-law for Canadian Municipalities is for swimming lessons. Do not be
available from the PHTCC. lulled into a false sense of security
because your child knows how to
swim— adult supervision is still required.
Layers of protection such as a fence, Never consider children “water s afe”
despite their swimming skills, previous
wall, or natural barrier around your instruction or experience. Many
pool can help keep out children professionals warn that these lessons
may provide a false sense of security to
under the age of five and all other a child’s family and not actually prepare
unauthorized users. Make sure that a child for surviving a true emergency.
your fence has a self-closing and It also makes sense for the supervisor
and other responsible family members
self-latching gate and is properly to be trained in artificial respiration
maintained. Remember there is no and/or cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR). Instruction is available from local
substitute for adult supervision.
community organizations such as the
American Red Cross or the Canadian
Red Cross.
Swimming Ability Drowning Prevention and
If you are unsure of someone’s swim
Safety Tips
ming abilities, make sure they stay
Drowning is the leading cause of
in the shallow water area and watch
accidental death for American infants
them closely. If you wish to teach
and children ages 1 to 4. According
non-swimmers or poor swimmers, the
to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
shallow area of the pool is an excellent
Commission (CPSC), there are 4,900
place for instruction. Never swim alone
pool and spa drowning-related injuries
or allow others to do so. Never allow
treated in emergency departments every
anyone to swim when overtired, feeling
year and at least 300 children under 5
chilled or after taking drugs or drinking
years old drown in pools, spas and hot
alcohol.
tubs annually. Most of the cases involve
inground residential pools. Drowning
Describe or demonstrate to everyone
in all bodies of water remains the
the underwater shape and depth of
second-leading cause of injury-related
the pool. You should be aware that
death among children ages 1 to 14
visual inspection of the pool may be
nationwide.
misleading due to a variety of factors.
Children are naturally attracted to
swimming pools and associated pool
A telephone near the pool area will toys. To prevent drownings and other
serious injuries you must keep children
provide quicker access to a medical
away from pools and all bodies of water
facility in case of an emergency. in the absence of adult supervision.
Remove all pool toys when the pool is
not in use.
8Organizations such as PoolSafely.gov, solar or insulating covers). No one
the American Red Cross, the Drowning should walk or crawl on them. The
Prevention Foundation, Think First, the pool should never be used when
Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, the U.S. Centers these covers are in use because
for Disease Control and Prevention someone may become entrapped
(CDC), the YMCA of the United beneath them. Never remove covers
States, the National Rehabilitation while in the pool.
Hospital, the National Swimming Pool • Floating toys attract youngsters.
Foundation, the Canadian Red Cross Remove toys from the pool when not
and Lifesaving Society promote that in use. Your child can easily fall into
constant, undivided adult supervision the pool while trying to retrieve one.
is the primary element in an integrated Keep toys, particularly baby walkers,
approach to drowning prevention. tricycles or wheel toys away from the
pool.
SAFETY TIPS – PHTA has a variety for
safety brochures offering safety tips. • Do not rely on plastic inner tubes,
For more information or to request a inflatable arm bands, water wings
hard copy, email PHTA Member Services or other flotation devices to prevent
at memberservices@phta.org or call accidents. Do not permit playful
703.838.0083 ext. 301. screaming for help (false alarms) that
might mask a real emergency.
• Remove vegetation and other ob • Always seek the advice of a pool
stacles to ensure a clear view of the and spa professional when creating
pool. Maintain a clear zone around a safety checklist and ask to see
the perimeter of the pool. their credentials to ensure that those
• Do not place objects (e.g., chairs, who maintain your aboveground/on
tables or equipment) near the pool ground pool are trained to maximize
barrier or side of the pool because a the “Layers of Protection.” Remember,
child or youngster could climb them safety is ultimately your responsibility
to gain access to the pool. as the pool owner.
• A fence, wall, or natural barrier • Maintain your pool water. A “green
must be of sufficient height to keep pool” with no or little visibility of the
unauthorized people out of your bottom can hide a drowning child.
pool. Doors and access gates, if If your pool’s filtration system is out
used, should have a self-latching or of order, or the chemicals are out
self-closing mechanism above the of balance and you can’t correct
reach of toddlers to protect against the situation yourself, call a pool
unauthorized entry and use. professional for help, or drain the
pool.
• Limit access to the pool by locking
doors or gates whenever swimming is • Do not allow anyone to hold their
not supervised. breath underwater for an extended
period of time (more than 30
• Be especially alert for potential seconds). This can lead to loss of
drowning accidents if you use any consciousness and drowning even in
lightweight, floating pool covers (i.e., a shallow pool.
9Exercise and Fitness monitoring your own exercise and in
supervising others who exercise in your
Your aboveground/onground swimming pool. Do not use the pool alone!
pool provides a place for convenient,
effective exercise. It can be used for Entertaining
both serious lap swimming and for
performing calisthenics and other Your pool can be the focal point for
exercises. Consult your physician before happy entertaining. Plan ahead to
beginning any exercise program. prevent accidents and injuries and
to make your entertaining truly
Before entering the pool, it is enjoyable.
recommended that you do warm up
exercises first. To prevent unpleasant • Never leave the pool unsupervised.
sensations, always test the water The supervisor or “water watcher”
temperature before entering the pool. is responsible for constant visual
supervision of the pool.
Likewise, when exiting the pool after
strenuous exercise, take care to adjust • Whether having a party or just having
to being “back on land” again. Your a few people over for a swim, think
muscles may be fatigued, the air may
feel cold and the wet ground around you
Alcohol or drugs do not mix with
may pose a slipping hazard.
pool activities.
Lap swimming is perhaps the best
form of aerobic conditioning — you
can efficiently exercise your heart about the number of invited guests
without placing stress on your weight- and their swimming skills. Plan
bearing joints and the lumbar spine. ahead; children require constant
According to Dr. Jane Katz, author of attention.
Swimming for Total Fitness, moving the • Food and drink play an important
arms and legs against the resistance part in entertaining. Establish an area
of water is similar to exercising with away from the pool for refreshments.
weights, but since water doesn’t allow This will prevent debris from falling
any sudden, harmful movements and into the pool and prevent accidental
your body is buoyant, the risk of injury falls caused by spilled food or drink.
is lowered. • Your guests probably will be bare
footed while near the pool. Use
Exercises for flexibility, aerobics and only unbreakable dishes, beverage
strength are easier in water than on containers, and utensils. Never use
land because being in water effectively glass anywhere near the pool. Broken
lessens the pull of gravity on your body. glass may be hard to see in water
It is easier (particularly for older people and extremely difficult to get out of
or those with painful joints or weak leg the support system. If glass should
muscles) to do calisthenics in water. break and fall into the water, it may
be necessary to drain, clean and re-
Your pool is an excellent place to fill the pool. Better to set a strict “no
exercise. But use good judgment in glass” rule for the pool area.
10Entertaining can be both fun and safe with a little planning and good judgment. Use
only unbreakable dishes, beverage containers and utensils. And never allow anyone
to use the pool under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Keep electrical appliances a signifi • Urinating in the pool is NOT
cant distance from the pool. Don’t acceptable. Urine combines with
use extension cords. Use a ground chlorine to form chloramines –
fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) ineffective as a disinfectant and a
on any appliance or electrical skin, eye, and lung irritant in high
device that is used poolside. Where concentrations. Add “No Pee in the
possible, use battery-operated Pool” to your Pool Rules and signage.
appliances around the pool. • If you use your pool at night, provide
Electrocution from appliances and adequate lighting in and around
telephones in contact with water is a the pool so that the pool bottom is
real danger. clearly visible.
• Insist that poor swimmers or non- • The use of alcohol or drugs does
-swimmers stay in water depths that not mix with pool activities. These
are not over their heads. Do not substances act as depressants.
assume that everyone near or in the They can “slow you down” because
water can swim well or will know what they affect the part of the brain
to do in the event of an emergency. that exercises restraint and control.
• Wherever practical, anyone who Alcohol can instill false courage
uses your pool should shower with or “bravado,” leading people to
soap and water before use. Shower try things they normally would
ing before use washes away many not, such as horseplay or diving in
of the common skin bacteria and aboveground/onground swimming
removes lotions, deodorants, creams, pools. Therefore, persons who have
etc. Perspiration and lotions will been drinking alcohol should not
reduce the effectiveness of the pool be allowed in the pool and should
disinfectant and lessen the ability of be carefully supervised in the area
the filter to work efficiently. surrounding the pool.
• People with skin, ear, genital or • Prescription medicines sometimes
other body infections, open sores cause drowsiness or have other side
or wounds, etc. should not use the effects. If you are taking prescription
pool because of the possibility of medicine, check with your doctor
spreading infection. before using the pool.
• Young children and infants must • Using inflatable toys, rafts and floats
ALWAYS wear sealed “swim diapers” in your pool can be fun. Remember
in case of bowel movement while that they are also deflatable. Poor
in the pool. Otherwise, there is swimmers or non-swimmers should
significant risk of unpleasant infection use them only in shallow water.
to the child and all other bathers in
the pool.
11• Games that may appear safe • You have the bottom line
sometimes are not. Encourage and responsibility in poolside
supervise the use of good pool entertaining. Use good judgment to
games and toys. help protect yourself, your family,
• Always obey and enforce safety and guests. Prohibit use of the
rules. Insist that there be no running, pool by persons whose condition or
pushing or roughhousing near the ability you doubt. Remember, you are
pool. Never throw anyone into the in charge of your pool, and may be
pool. legally liable if someone is injured.
• Prohibit activities such as diving
through an inner tube. Serious head Drink Responsibly
or neck injuries can occur regardless
of water depth, due to hitting the Many people believe they have to drink
head on the inner tube and/or the a lot to be affected by alcohol. Studies
bottom or side of the pool. show this just isn’t true. The alcohol
in just one or two beverages can
• Help guests who have removed eye affect your judgment, even though you
glasses or contact lenses for swim don’t feel or appear to be “drunk.” A
ming. Be aware that their depth per small amount of alcohol can slow your
ception and ability to judge distance reflexes. This is especially true if you are
are changed. Children especially may tired or on medication— such as cold or
be unaware of the difference. allergy remedies or prescription drugs.
• Do not allow running on the pool Plan your events so swimming comes
deck, as injuries may occur from slips before drinking any alcoholic beverages.
and falls. Studies have shown that alcohol is
• Stay out of your pool during light directly related to 50-80% of diving
ning or rainstorms because there is accidents. The effects of alcohol are a
a possibility of electrocution from the major contributor to all other types of
lightning hitting the water. pool accidents.
Supervise your pool activities!
Intex Recreation Corp.
12Overall Safe Operation and Maintenance
of Your Aboveground/Onground Pool
Keeping your pool in top operating Therefore, they must not be used with
form is very important to help ensure aboveground pools.
the safety of those who use it and to • Trampolines must never be used with
protect your investment. Carefully read, aboveground pools.
understand and follow the operating
and maintenance instructions supplied • A deck around your pool can add real
by the pool manufacturer and the beauty and enjoyment. Be sure your
manufacturers of associated products deck has a slip-resistant surface with
(e.g., filters, pumps, chemicals). This adequate drainage. Overall, slips and
booklet is not intended to replace falls constitute the greatest number
information supplied by manufacturers. of accidents involving pools. Keep the
A good general rule is to visually inspect deck or patio clean and clear of all
your pool area and equipment regularly. debris. Check periodically for signs
If anything looks broken, worn, corroded, of wear and tear, which may make
frayed or not right, contact your pool these surfaces hazardous. Remember
professional for advice and repairs. that diving, jumping or sliding into
A simple repair or replacement may an aboveground/onground pool
prevent an injury or save a life. It may is prohibited even if you have an
also prevent more serious or expensive attached deck: ensure that No Diving
equipment problems. signs are visible from the deck!
• Rope and Float Lines. If your pool is
furnished with a rope and float line,
Equipment In and refer to the manufacturer’s instruc
Around the Pool tions for installation and use.
• Pool Covers. Pool covers are a real
• A variety of accessories are available benefit to you in terms of saving en
to complement your pool. Be aware ergy and water and keeping debris
of all precautions related to the out of the pool. For safe installation,
installation, use, and maintenance use and maintenance of these
of these products. It makes sense to covers, carefully read and follow
pay special attention to educating the directions of the manufacturer.
children about safety precautions. These are not safety covers. They do
Teach your children about equipment not prevent drowning or entry into
maintenance and proper upkeep the pool. For more information see
of the pool. As they get older, your “Drowning Prevention Tips.”
children will learn from your example
• Avoid the possibility of someone
that they must respect the pool and
being trapped under the pool cover by
surrounding area and act responsibly.
always completely removing the cover
• Pool slides and diving boards from outside of the pool before use.
require a greater water depth than Never swim under the cover. Drain any
is available in an aboveground pool. standing water from the surface of
13your pool cover (e.g., by using a water • Never allow anyone to swim between
pump). Even a small amount of water the ladder and the pool wall or
may be sufficient for a small child to through the risers. They can become
drown on top of the cover. entrapped and may drown.
• Taylor’s Rule: Never swim between
• Safety Covers. If you use a pool cover the wall and the ladder or through
as a safety cover, it must comply the ladder risers. Death by drowning
with ASTM F 1346-91 Standard may result. *
Performance Specification for Safety • Allow only one person at a time on
Covers and Labeling Requirements the ladder. Never allow anyone to dive
for All Covers for Swimming Pools, or jump from ladders, steps or from
Spas and Hot Tubs. Carefully read the the ladder platform.
manufacturer’s instructions for safe
use. • Check all nuts and bolts regularly to
make sure the ladder stays sturdy
and safe.
Ladders, Steps, & Handrails • Permanently installed ladders,
handrails and swimming pool steps
Never allow anyone to swim between
must be securely mounted. Routinely
the ladder and the pool wall or
inspect them to ensure that they
through the risers.
are firmly in place. Check for broken
treads, sharp edges and loose bolts
Only use an aboveground/onground
and nuts. Keep handrails, steps
pool ladder or staircase to enter or
and ladders unobstructed for use.
exit your pool.
Don’t use them for hanging towels
or goggles, tying up rubber rafts and
• Ladders may be slippery when wet.
the like.
Use caution! Always assist young
children when using the ladder. *Eleven year-old Taylor Velargo drowned
on June 11, 2000, when he became
• It is the pool owner’s responsibility to
entrapped while attempting to swim
secure the pool against unauthorized,
through the risers of an aboveground
unsupervised or unintentional entry.
pool ladder.
• Prevent unauthorized or unsuper
vised use of your pool, particularly by
children and toddlers. Remember to
secure, lock or remove the ladder
and store it away from the pool to
prevent access when the pool is not
to be used.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for
installation and safety.
• Face the ladder when going up or
down. Instruct pool users about
proper use of pool ladders and stairs.
14Suction Outlets (Drains)
• Never enter the pool if a suction WARNING
fitting or suction outlet cover (drain
cover) is loose, cracked, broken or
DROWNING HAZARD
missing. Immediately notify the pool
owner or operator if you find the
outlet (drain) cover loose, broken or
missing.
• Never play or swim near suction
fittings. Your body or hair may be
trapped causing permanent injury Avoid Evisceration
or drowning. Tell children, particu
larly, that these devices are not toys.
Instruct all swimmers not to stick their
fingers, toes or body into them.
• Your pool’s inlet and outlet fittings,
grates, skimmer and suction outlet
(main drain) covers should be kept Avoid Drain Covers
in good condition and in place at all
times and should be secured in such
a manner that they can’t be removed
without the use of tools.
• Your aboveground pool’s suction
outlet fittings and suction outlet
covers must comply with the latest
Avoid Body Entrapment
edition of APSP/APSP-16 Standard
for Suction Fittings for Use in
Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas
and Hot Tubs. If the suction outlet
cover is in compliance, there will be
a designation marker on the cover/
fitting. If the drain cover does not
comply, shut down the pool until Avoid Finger Entrapment
the drain cover is replaced. If you
need assistance to determine this,
please consult a pool professional.*
To search for a PHTA member
professional in your area, visit
PHTA.org/MemberLocator. Anyone
with long hair should be cautioned
not to get their hair near a pool outlet. Avoid Hair Entanglement
Hair entanglement is the leading
cause of entrapment. The suction can
cause hair or body entrapment and
15drowning. Never allow a child to play Serious bodily injury can occur if the
in a way that could permit the child’s top of the filter separates from the
hair to come near the drain cover. If bottom with sudden force because of
you have long hair, pin it up or wear a some problem or error on your part.
bathing cap. • Always securely clamp the top and
bottom of a two p iece filter in ac
For further consumer awareness cordance with the manufacturer’s
information, visit the website of the U.S. instructions. Serious bodily injury or
Consumer Product Safety Commission death can result if the top of a two-
at CPSC.gov and the Pool & Hot Tub piece filter is blown off by air pressure
alliance at PHTA.org. in the tank. If you are at all unsure
of how to proceed, ask your pool
Filter Systems professional.
• Filtration equipment requires care Heaters
in handling as well as regular
maintenance and replacement • Heaters produce carbon monoxide,
of parts to function properly and a poisonous gas. Do not place heat
efficiently. Any replacement pump ers under or near windows. Follow
capacity must not exceed the manufacturer’s instructions.
maximum rated flow marked on the
suction outlet cover. • Heaters should be installed accord
ing to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Carefully follow the manufacturer’s and should be in accordance with
instructions for maintaining, servicing state, provincial, or local government
or repairing a filter or separation tank. regulations or fire codes. Heaters may
Regularly inspect this equipment be hot to the touch. Do not place or
while it is turned off and always drape any flammable material (e.g.,
replace worn or damaged parts. a towel or tee shirt) on top of or near
• Most filter systems can maintain a heater.
internal pressure even when shut off. • If you wish to use a propane heater,
Never inspect or perform work on consult local regulations for the safe
your filter equipment without turning use, hookup and storage of propane
the system off and bleeding off the products. These regulations may
internal pressure through the manual be under the control of local fire
valve provided for that purpose. Refer or municipal departments, county
to the manufacturer’s instructions. building codes, etc. Learn your local
• When you restart your filter after regulations and follow them.
maintenance or when you are turning • With propane or natural gas
on your equipment to put your pool in heaters, when lighting or relighting
operation, always bleed off the air in the pilot or turning the heater on
your filter tank and then stand back. or off, refer to the manufacturer’s
instructions on the name and
*PHTA member companies are independent contractors rating plate. This plate is attached
and are not employees or agents of PHTA.
To search for a PHTCC-member professional, visit to the heater inside the control
www.poolcouncil.ca/locate-a-member/ compartment. Following these
PHTCC Recommended Guidelines
“Suction Entrapment Avoidance Provisions” (G-0109) instructions will prevent injuries. Gas
is explosive and flammable.
16• Regular inspection and ELECTRICAL SHOCK/
maintenance of a propane or ELECTROCUTION.
natural gas heating system is Water is an excellent conductor of
a must. If any part of the system electricity. Electrical shock or elec
appears worn, damaged, corroded trocution can occur in a pool if live
or otherwise inoperative, discontinue electrical current flowing through
use and contact a professional appliances and devices (including
immediately. current from a telephone) comes into
• If a gas fired heater is installed contact with the water. Make sure all
indoors it must be vented to the electrical appliances and devices are
outside. protected by a ground fault circuit
interrupter, or GFCI, and that no
electrical outlet is within 6 feet of the
Adequate Lighting pool wall.
If the pool is used after dusk, adequate Have a complete first aid kit at poolside
lighting must be provided. Illumination and make sure that someone knows
must be sufficient to see swimmers in how to use the contents properly. Post
the pool and allow swimmers to clearly your address and a list of emergency
judge pool depth as well as all features telephone numbers in a visible location
in and around the pool. Consult your should an emergency occur and
local licensed electrical contractor for someone needs to call 911. If you are
recommendations. unsure of whether something is an
emergency, err on caution and call 911.
First Aid
Adults in the family should be trained
Preventing an emergency is the best in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
preparation: Never leave a child alone It is performed to restore and maintain
in or near a pool or any other body of breathing and circulation and to provide
water. oxygen and blood flow to the heart,
brain and other vital organs. CPR can
CUTS, CONTUSIONS, AND save the life of victims of respiratory or
ABRASIONS. cardiac arrest as a result of drowning,
The pool environment, as well as heart attack or other causes. CPR
associated products and equipment, training is available through the local
can be a source of injury to users. chapters of the American Red Cross
Slipping and falling can result in cuts at RedCross.org/Take-a-Class/CPR or
or scrapes or broken legs and arms. through the American Heart Association
Horseplay, improper use of equipment, at CPR.Heart.org.
failure to store equipment out of and
away from the pool area or failure to
follow manufacturers’ instructions and
warnings, can result in serious trauma
and permanently disabling and/or
disfiguring injuries.
17In Case of Emergency Lifesaving Equipment
1. Check the scene for safety. If the Plan ahead for potential emergency
person is in the water, remove them if situations by owning and being familiar
it is safe to do so. with basic lifesaving equipment and
procedures. Have at poolside a device
2. Have someone call 9-1-1 and bring such as a solid pole or a rope that
the phone to the person’s side if can provide immediate assistance to
possible (the dispatcher may instruct a person in trouble. Make sure that
you how to perform CPR). It is any flotation rescue equipment used is
advisable to have a mobile/cordless Coast Guard approved, such as a type
telephone available in the pool or III lifejacket or ring buoy. In Canada
spa/hot tub area. Lifesaving equipment must be approved
by Transport Canada or Canadian Coast
3. The person calling 9-1-1 activates Guard or Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
the emergency response system and Practice using these devices correctly
will be asked a series of questions to be ready in an emergency. Use these
such as the address or location of the devices only for emergencies. Do not
incident. The dispatcher will provide allow children to play with lifesaving
the caller with instructions. equipment.
Lifesaving equipment should be stored
WAS NOTED IN OLDER EDITS - in a location that is visible and readily
WHERE/HOW TO ADD THIS: available to users of the pool. If proper
Pg 18 first column middle: include equipment is not available in an
Canadian Red Cross and St. John emergency situation, throw something
Ambulance floatable (e.g., styrofoam toys or boards,
etc.) into the pool for the person to grab
onto until help arrives or until he or she
gets to the side of the pool.
Intex Recreation Corp.
18Automatic Pool Cleaners • Use an EPA-registered sanitizer and
follow the use directions on the
Automatic pool cleaners, vacuums or label to protect against the spread
robots, especially those which use a of infection. Do not assume that be
hose, cable or cord, should be removed cause the water is clear that it has
from the pool completely before been properly sanitized. Periodically
swimmers enter the pool. This removes check the sanitizer levels to ensure
the potential for entanglement in the that they are maintained according
cleaning system while swimming and to the label directions.
helps prevent injury or drowning. • Keep the pool clean and clear of
debris. For safety’s sake, swim
Children swimming in a pool with a mers and supervisors must be able
cleaner present or in use may confuse to clearly see the bottom drain or
it with a pool toy and attempt to play bottom of the pool so as to be able
with the cleaner, increasing chances of to make intelligent decisions about
entanglement. pool use.
• Keep the pool filled to its proper level.
Other Pool Equipment Periodically check the water levels.
Other pool maintenance equipment, • When opening your pool each year,
such as poles, brushes, leaf rakes, have the water professionally tested
skimmers, chemical floats, etc. should to ensure safe water quality and
be removed from the pool and from the replace the test kit reagents.
immediate pool area and safely stored • Never add chemicals to the pool
when swimmers are in the pool. This water while swimmers are using the
prevents injury from tripping and hitting pool.
equipment while swimming or playing.
• Always read and follow label
Children can confuse equipment for toys
instructions. Always add chemicals
and can therefore become exposed to
directly to water. If it is necessary
high chemical concentrations.
to pre-dissolve the chemical, put
water in the pail first, then add the
Chemical Handling chemical. If the directions call for pre-
dissolving a dry chemical in a pail of
The chemicals needed for your pool water, be sure to only add chemicals
help to make it clean, safe and from a single package. Do not add
more attractive to use. But remember chemicals from different packages.
that these chemicals are potentially Adding chemicals from different
dangerous and may present some packages can result in the mixing of
hazards if not used properly. Carefully incompatible chemicals, which can
follow the manufacturer’s instructions lead to fire, explosion or release of
for the use and storage of chemicals. toxic gases.
19• Never mix two chemicals together. • Chemicals for test kits should be Use a clean dry scoop for each replaced each year. chemical. Never combine material • Do not inhale dust or fumes from from “old” and “new” containers. any pool chemicals. If necessary, Do not return a wet scoop to the use protective devices for breathing, chemical container. handling, and eye protection. • When preparing water solutions for Promptly wash off any residues that feeder application (e.g., disinfectant get on your skin. or soda ash), pour the chemical • Never reuse old chemical containers. slowly into the appropriate amount of water, stirring constantly to provide • If you have any questions regarding mixing and dilutions. Do not stir with safe handling, storage, or use of pool your hands—use a clean, dry, non chemicals, contact the manufacturers. metallic utensil. • Carefully clean up any spilled Storage chemicals according to the label directions. Check with local author • NEVER consolidate chemicals from ities before sending any chemicals separate partial containers into a to the sewer as waste. Do not put single container because this practice spilled material back in the original can lead to mixing of incompatible container. chemicals (e.g., different types of • To eliminate risk of fire, explosion or chlorinating agents). Fire, explosion, poisoning, rinse empty disinfectant release of toxic gases, injury and containers thoroughly with water property damage can result from before disposing of them. mixing incompatible chemicals. • Test the water in your pool with • Read the labels and directions a reliable test kit on a schedule carefully before using chemicals. specified by the sanitizer label Follow label instructions for use, or as recommended by your pool storage, spill and disposal of pool professional. Regularly have your chemicals. pool water thoroughly tested by a • Keep all chemicals out of the reach professional pool care specialist, of children. Do not allow children to such as at a pool and spa specialty handle pool and spa chemicals. They store. They can test for chemical are usually poisonous and highly levels and conditions not usually reactive. They can easily cause severe available in most residential water chemical burns to skin, mucous test kits. As a general rule, this should membranes and eyes. be done monthly, in order to ensure • Burns/Fires — Chemicals needed for proper water balance and to avoid clean, sanitized water are potentially destruction of pool equipment or harmful when improperly stored or unnecessary use of chemicals. The used. If mixed with other chemicals more people who use your pool, the or elements, explosions and fire can more frequently you should test the occur. Read the label and follow water. Add the necessary chemicals manufacturer’s instructions! according to the test results and the manufacturer’s instructions. 20
• Keep the original lids on all chemical • When carrying swimming pool
containers and make sure the lids are chemicals in your vehicle, ensure that
closed tightly when not in use. they cannot spill into each other or
come into contact with each other,
• Do not stack different chemicals on
in case of accident or rupture of a
top of one another.
container. Violent chemical reactions
• Store your pool chemicals in a and release of poisonous gasses
clean, cool, dry, well-ventilated area can result. A better idea is to never
preferably off the floor, to prevent purchase reactive chemicals such as
contamination from other materials. chlorine and acid at the same time.
Especially do not store chemicals
• Wash your hands thoroughly after
near the pool heater. Keep them
using chemicals.
away from chemicals and equip
Electrical Maintenance
Don’t guess with chemicals. Before
using, read the labels and follow Here are some general safety rules and
precautions for electrical maintenance:
directions carefully. Be sure to store
them properly. • Before working with any electrical
equipment, make sure the electricity
is turned off at the circuit breaker or
fuse box.
ment used for garden and lawn
• Make sure that there are no
maintenance. Keep acids away from
electrical outlets within 6 feet of
other chemicals.
the pool and that all electrical
• Keep liquid chemicals away from dry outlets near the pool are protected
chemicals. Keep apart chemicals by ground fault circuit interrupt
that are different forms of oxidizing ers (GFCIs). GFCIs are designed to
compounds. Physically separate all prevent electrical shock. They are a
different forms of chemicals. kind of “fail safe” device that can
• Do not store your pool chemicals shut off electrical current in fractions
where other flammable items may of seconds. Ask a licensed electrician
mix with them. For example, a mixture for more details.
of pool chemicals and fertilizer can • If you have any frayed cords, loose
cause a fire or explosion. connections, sparking or arcing, turn
• If diluting liquid acid to add into the off the power at the circuit breaker
pool, ALWAYS add Acid into Water, and call for a licensed electrician.
never Water into Acid. A good rule • Have a licensed electrician inspect
to remember is “alphabetical order: and test all equipment prior to initial
A into W.” Adding water to acid can operation and before each season.
cause violent reactions and injury.
• Never replace bulbs for underwater
lights yourself. Get an expert to do
this for you.
21• If you are installing your own pool,
Working with electricity is a it is your responsibility to make
certain that all work performed
job best left to the experts. complies with the National Electrical
Don’t take chances. Code or Canadian Electrical Code
and all other applicable codes and
regulations.
• Do not let water accumulate on
floor or deck areas where electrical Recommended Use of
switches are located.
Professionals
• Do not stand in water while operating
electrical components. For your protection, only pool
• To safely use electricity in and around professionals, licensed electricians,
your pool, you must have equipment gas fitters, builders, carpenters or
expressly designed for this purpose. other appropriate experts should
Consult with a licensed electrician perform the following services:
for help in equipping your pool side
area correctly for electricity. Ask the • Selection, installation and servicing
licensed electrician to be aware of of electrical equipment, heaters and
any local electrical codes that apply filters.
in your area. Ensure that your pool • Inspection and replacement of vinyl
and its equipment are designed and liners.
installed to conform to the National
• Building of walls, fences and other
Electrical Code or Canadian Electrical
barriers as layers of protection.
Code for pools and related equip
ment. Electrical work, especially in • Annual inspection of all pool
wet areas, is not for “do-it-yourselfers” equipment and accessories.
or other amateurs. Contract with a • Replacement and repair of electrical
licensed electrician to make sure wires and pool light apparatus.
that all of your outside electrical
lines (not just those for the pool, its • Search for a PHTA member
equipment and accessories but also professional in your area, visit
for other appliances used outside as PHTA.org/MemberLocator.
well) are protected by ground fault
circuit interrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs are
designed to help protect against the
hazards of electrical shock.
22Notice to Parents and Pool Owners
Parents and pool owners: The lives and health of you, your family, as well as your
friends and neighbors are important. Please practice safety and supervise your
pool. Review the safety information in this booklet with your children and any
children that use the pool. It is your responsibility to enforce the rules of safety.
A good exercise would be to have each of your children and the other pool users
who reside with you read this booklet and sign in one of the spaces indicated
below. This will help you enforce the rules since you can always refer back to
their promise reflected by their signature.
We, the undersigned, have read this safety booklet. We understand what it says
and we promise to follow the rules of safety and to use our common sense.
Additional Consumer For more free consumer safety
Safety Information information, visit:
PHTA.org
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) offers many
publications and materials to help you enjoy CDC.gov/healthywater/swimming
your pool. Visit PHTA.org to access free water
safety brochures. DivingBoardSafety.net
PoolSafely.gov
CONTACT:
Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Safepools.ca
2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 500
Alexandria, VA 22314
PHTA.org
Consumers may also wish to visit:
Centers of Disease Control and Prevention:
CDC.gov/HealthyWater/Swimming/
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:
PoolSafely.com
232111 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 500
Alexandria VA 22314
4775 Granby Circle
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
About PHTA
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) is the world’s oldest and largest association
representing swimming pool, hot tub and spa manufacturers, distributors,
manufacturers’ agents, designers, builders, installers, suppliers, retailers and
service professionals. Dedicated to the growth and development of its members’
businesses and to promote the enjoyment and safety of pools and spas, PHTA
offers a range of services including professional development through PHTA
University, advocacy at the federal and local levels, consumer outreach and public
safety awareness. For more information, visit PHTA.org.
Warning: There is no substitute for constant, competent
adult supervision in the swimming pool
environment Lives depend on you!
Product Number 10-250 Quantity: 20m Date: 11/19 Copyright ©2019 Pool & Hot Tub AllianceYou can also read
