The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Aboveground/Onground Swimming Pool

The Sensible Way

An Essential Safety Guide—Mandatory Reading to Enjoy Your Aboveground/ Onground Swimming Pool

Congratulations on being a pool owner!

Your pool promises years of fun and relaxation for you, your family, and guests. This booklet contains important safety information you should know about operating and maintaining your pool. You’ll learn about potential pool-related accidents and how to prevent them. Remember, it is your responsibility to be sure that everyone uses the pool sensibly. The key to safe use of a pool is a sensible and informed consumer. Welcome to Safe and Enjoyable Pool Ownership!

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 is not intended to address all aspects of pool design operations, installation, 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, ready for use and reference and be sure to pass them along to future owners or renters.

It is your responsibility to enforce safety rules.

Complete Your Pool Knowledge

Clearly understand the specifics of safe operation and proper maintenance of your aboveground/onground pool. In addition to this booklet, thoroughly read and keep all the operating instructions, owner’s manuals, and warranties for your pool and its equipment. These resources detail safe operation and proper maintenance practices. Keep them in a readily accessible place, review them seasonally, and pass them along to future owners or renters.

The safety information in this booklet should be reviewed with children and guests before using the pool. It is the pool owner’s responsibility to secure the pool against unauthorized, unsupervised, or unintentional entry. Remember, pool misuse can result in serious injury and/or be dangerous to life and health.

First-time users run the highest risk of injury! Before they enter the pool, inform them of the safety rules.

Special thanks to the below companies, organizations, and individuals for their help creating and updating this booklet:

• Bestway (USA) Inc.

• Blue Torrent Pool Products

• Buster Crabbe Swimming Pools

• Champlain Plastics Inc.

• Confer Plastics, Inc.

• International Association of Plumbing

• Intex Recreation Corp.

• Latham Pool Products

• Polygroup Limited

• Radiant Pools

• Teddy Bear Pools & Spas, Inc.

• U. S. Consumer Product Safety and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Commission (CPSC)

• International Code Council (ICC)

• American Red Cross

• Terry Arko (HASA Pool)

• Alexa Dal Pino (Dal Pino Quality Pools Inc.)

• James Egan, Ph.D. (LaMotte Company), ERC Chair

• Kevin McAuley (Poolsure)

• Matthew Selman (Associated Pool Builders, Inc.)

• Paul Wahler (Industry Expert)

The PHTA Editorial Review Committee (ERC): 2

The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Aboveground/ Onground Swimming Pool

Welcome to Safe and Enjoyable Pool Ownership!

This booklet, prepared by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), offers general guidance on safe use, operation, and maintenance of your pool. It will help you understand some of the causes of pool-related accidents and how to prevent them. It reflects current industry knowledge, but doesn’t cover all aboveground/onground pool-specific details.

For comprehensive installation, use, maintenance, and safety instructions, always refer to your manufacturer’s manuals or other materials, and keep them with this booklet for easy reference. Pass them on to future owners or renters.

Pools can provide endless enjoyment, but responsible use is crucial. As the owner, you play a vital role in ensuring everyone uses your pool sensibly. This booklet empowers you with the information needed for safe pool ownership. The key to safe use of a product is a sensible and informed consumer.

Complete Your Pool Knowledge

Clearly understand the specifics of safe operation and proper maintenance of your aboveground/ onground pool. In addition to this booklet, thoroughly read and keep all the operating instructions, owner’s manuals, and warranties for your pool and its equipment. These resources detail safe operation and proper maintenance practices. Keep them in a readily accessible place, review them seasonally, and pass them along to future owners or renters.

The safety information in this booklet should be reviewed with children and guests before using the pool.

It is the pool owner’s responsibility to secure the pool against unauthorized, unsupervised, or unintentional entry. Remember, pool misuse can result in serious injury and/or be dangerous to life and health.

First-time users run the highest risk of injury! Before they enter the pool, inform them of the safety rules

By carefully reading this booklet, you may save the life of a child or prevent serious harm to yourself, family members, or friends. It is your responsibility to learn and understand safety principles and rules. To ensure safety, every pool owner must read this booklet and implement these safe practices.

Good Reasons for Thinking Safety First

Informed users are concerned about safety because serious injuries and even death can result from unsafe use of aboveground pools, pool equipment, and associated products.

Aboveground/Onground swimming pools are designed for swimming and wading only. They are not deep enough for diving, jumping, or sliding. Do not use diving boards, slides, trampolines, or any other objects or platforms on aboveground/onground pools. Diving, jumping, or sliding is prohibited. These actions are extremely dangerous and can easily result in severe injury, death, or paralysis.

SIGNAGE. All aboveground/onground pools must have safety signs stating “NO DIVING” affixed to the pool, deck, or fence. All original and replacement liners must include safety signs stating “NO DIVING”. All aboveground/onground pools are to be labeled with “No Diving” signs supplied or applied by the manufacturer or installer. As the pool owner, it is your responsibility to maintain these signs and make sure they are not covered, removed, or obscured by a deck or other obstruction. If the signs become faded or worn, are 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 that 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 or death can result.

DON’T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOU!

Diving, jumping, or sliding into an aboveground pool is prohibited. If you jump into the pool, you could seriously injure your back or neck or hurt others. If you dive or slide into the pool, you could hit your head on the bottom or side, sustaining a spinal cord injury and possibly becoming paralyzed from the neck down for the rest of your life! A number of people who ignored these rules and chose to dive are now paralyzed – and many of these people were experienced divers. Inform family and guests who come to enjoy your pool of the safety rules you have established. DON’T DIVE, JUMP OR SLIDE!

Practice safety. Remember, it is the responsibility of the parents, caretakers, pool owner, and responsible adult supervisors to prevent accidents.

Guidelines for Using Aboveground/ Onground Swimming Pools

As a pool owner, you may be legally liable for the safety of all persons who use your pool. Be sure your insurance policy is updated to include ownership of your pool. You are responsible for the safety of all persons who use your pool.

Taking on ownership responsibilities does not mean taking the fun out of using your pool. If you apply safety practices and use good judgment, you will find that the benefits of a pool can far outweigh the risks. Here are some guidelines for using your aboveground/ onground swimming pool.

Layers of Protection

Never leave the pool unsupervised. When supervision is not available, even for a moment, close the pool.

Supervision is the primary layer of protection and the key to reducing the number of drowning or near-drowning accidents. Appoint one responsible adult as a “designated water watcher” to constantly attend the pool, stay in close proximity (within arm’s reach), and be prepared to intervene to prevent accidents. One individual must assume primary responsibility for constant visual supervision of the pool. The responsible adult must study the contents of this booklet as well as any instructions from the pool manufacturer and be thoroughly familiar with all facets of the safe use of the pool. This person will take responsibility for communicating safety information to everyone who enters the pool area. Supervision should

be continuous when the pool is in use. The supervisor or “designated water watcher” is responsible for enforcing “house rules” for your pool.

Appoint one responsible adult as a “designated water watcher” to constantly attend the pool, stay in close proximity (within arm’s reach), and be prepared to intervene to prevent accidents.

Draw up these rules from information in this booklet and other pool safety and maintenance information provided by the pool and equipment manufacturer or dealer. These rules should cover such things as the proper use of pool games, the consumption of food and alcoholic beverages, maintenance, the use of electrical appliances, and the handling of chemicals. Establish rules immediately. Write them in simple language and post them near the pool where they are easy to see.

Never leave children with caretakers or supervisors unless they are capable and responsible in the pool environment. Do not allow distractions like household chores, phone calls, group activities, or interruptions to draw attention away from pool supervision. Tragedies can occur during a party or family get together, when all the adults believe that another adult is supervising the pool.

It is a good idea to designate a backup for times when the primary adult supervisor is unavailable. (When one supervisor is called away, another supervisor must be appointed immediately.) The primary supervisor must not leave the area, even for a minute, unless another responsible adult is given the sole task of taking over the supervision responsibility. Never assume that a backup supervisor has taken over when the primary supervisor is called away (e.g., to answer the doorbell, use the rest room, or attend to a non-swimming child). You must explicitly and immediately assign another responsible adult to take over pool supervision duties.

If you must leave the pool area, even for one minute, take all children with you. One lapse in supervision can spell tragedy. Do not allow anyone

of any age to swim without a “designated watcher” actively supervising. Examples of good safety behavior by adults are important to educating and safeguarding children.

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. When the pool is not in use, the pool owner is responsible for safeguarding the pool to prevent unauthorized access.

Keep in mind that one designated water watcher may not be able to supervise more than a few children at one time. Depending on the size and features of your pool and how many children are swimming at a time, you may want to ask multiple responsible adults to supervise swimming activities.

Barriers – The ANSI/APSP/ICC-8

American National Standard for Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs establishes layers of protection to complement the requirement for constant adult supervision of young children around aquatic environments.

At times, children will do the unexpected, catching their responsible adult supervisors off guard. Additional layers of protection such as a fence, wall, or natural barrier of sufficient height are used to deter unauthorized and unsupervised people out of your pool.

All too frequently, the sound of a child drowning is silence. Don’t let silence or the lack of any sound of distress assure you that nothing is wrong. It is an inaccurate but well-known movie trope that swimmers in distress will thrash, scream, and splash while drowning. In reality, a drowning person often makes little or no sound, because they are under water.

Pools are attractive to children, who must be kept away from them in the absence of adult supervision.

Remember, these layers of protection will only delay and may not prevent a toddler from entering the pool area. Responsible adult supervision is the only way to prevent an accident.

Gates and doors, including sliding glass patio doors, should be self-closing and self-latching to prevent unauthorized and unsupervised entry and use of the pool area by children. The inside latch release should be at least 54 inches (1.37 m) high, above the reach of toddlers or young children. Alarms may be placed on the doors to alert caretakers of unauthorized entry to the pool area. The deactivation for alarms must be located at least 54” above the threshold.

Layers of protection such as a fence, wall, or natural barrier around your pool can help keep out children under the age of five and all other unauthorized users.

Make sure that your fence has a self-closing and selflatching gate and is properly maintained. Remember, there is no substitute for responsible adult supervision.

Fences are not childproof; however, they do provide layers of protection for a child if there is a lapse in adult supervision. Fences give parents additional time to find a child before an accident can occur. Only adult supervision can prevent drowning accidents. Layers of protection must be kept in good working order at all times. 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.

Check with your state, provincial, and local government to learn their specific requirements concerning barriers and other layers of protection around pools. If specific requirements do not exist, contact PHTA for the ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 American National Standard for Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs and the PHTA brochure entitled “Layers of Protection.”

Swimming Ability

If you are unsure of someone’s swimming abilities, make sure they stay in the shallow water area and watch them closely. If you wish to teach nonswimmers or poor swimmers, the shallow area of the pool is an excellent place for instruction. Never swim alone or allow others to do so. Never allow anyone to swim when overtired, feeling chilled, or after taking drugs or drinking alcohol.

Describe or demonstrate to everyone the underwater shape and depth of the pool. You should be aware that visual inspection of the pool may be misleading due to a variety of factors.

A telephone near the pool area will provide quicker access to a medical facility in case of an emergency.

Teach Your Children to Swim! The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children may begin swim lessons starting at age 1. However, it is important to remain vigilant in supervising pool activities — responsible adult supervision is still required even if your child knows how to swim. Never consider children “water safe” despite their swimming skills, previous instruction, or experience. Many professionals warn that swimming lessons may provide a false sense of security to a child’s family and not actually prepare a child for surviving a true emergency.

It also makes sense for the water watcher and other responsible adults to be trained in artificial respiration and/or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Instruction is available from local community organizations such as the American Red Cross.

Drowning Prevention and Safety Tips

More children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death, and it’s the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5-14, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). From 2017 through 2019, there were an average of 389 pool- or sparelated fatal drownings reported per year involving children younger than 15 years of age. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are 6,300 pool and spa drowning-related injuries treated in emergency departments every year and at least 300 children under 5 years old drown in pools, spas and hot tubs annually. Most of the cases involve inground residential pools, but any body of water poses the risk of drowning.

There is NO SUBSTITUTE FOR ADULT SUPERVISION!

Children are naturally attracted to swimming pools and associated pool toys. To prevent drownings and other serious injuries, you must keep children away from pools and all bodies of water in the absence of responsible adult supervision. REMOVE ALL POOL TOYS WHEN THE POOL IS NOT IN USE.

In addition to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, organizations such as PoolSafely.gov, the American Red Cross, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, Think First, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the YMCA of the United States, and the National Rehabilitation Hospital recognize that constant, undivided adult supervision is the primary element in an integrated approach to drowning prevention.

Safety Tips

SAFETY TIPS – PHTA has a variety of safety brochures offering safety tips. For more information or to request a hard copy, email PHTA Member Services at service@phta.org or call 703.838.0083.

1. Always watch your child around water. Never leave a child alone, or out of your eyesight, in or near a pool, spa, or hot tub— not even for a second.

2. Access to the pool, spa, or hot tub should be limited by locked doors and/or gates whenever swimming or soaking cannot be supervised.

3. Check the pool or spa to be sure no suction outlet fitting is missing, broken, or loose. You could become entrapped.

4. Be aware of where suction fittings (drains) are located and do not play or swim near them. Your body, swimsuit or hair can get trapped, causing permanent injury or drowning.

• Remove vegetation and other obstacles to ensure a clear view of the pool. Maintain a clear zone around the perimeter of the pool.

• Do not place objects (e.g., chairs, tables or equipment) near the pool barrier or side of the pool. A child or youngster could climb them to gain access to the pool.

5. Keep toys, particularly tricycles or wheeled toys, away from the pool, spa, or hot tub. A child playing with these could accidentally fall into the water.

6. Only practice safe swimming behaviors. Don’t engage in extended breath-holding activities underwater. You could black out and drown.

7. Always use a water-watcher. No one should swim alone. Examples of good safety behavior by adults are important for your children.

• A fence, wall, or natural barrier must meet the minimum height requirements of ANSI/APSP/ ICC-8 American National Standard for Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs to keep unauthorized people out of your pool. Doors and access gates, if used, should have a self-latching or self-closing mechanism above the reach of toddlers to protect against unauthorized entry and use.

• Limit access to the pool by locking doors or gates whenever swimming is not supervised.

• Be especially alert for potential drowning accidents if you use any lightweight, floating pool covers (i.e., solar or insulating covers). No one should walk or crawl on them. The pool should never be used when these covers are in use because someone may become entrapped beneath them. Never remove covers while in the pool.

• Floating toys attract youngsters. Remove toys from the pool when not in use. Your child can easily fall into the pool while trying to retrieve one. Keep toys, particularly baby walkers, tricycles, or wheel toys away from the pool.

• Do not rely on plastic inner tubes, inflatable arm bands, water wings, or other flotation devices to prevent accidents. Do not permit playful screaming for help (false alarms) that might mask a real emergency.

Watch your children at all times.

that completely surround a pool, or a locking automatic safety cover. Owners should always check and comply with state and local codes and ordinances requiring fences or other barriers.

Other devices should always be used in combination with at least one primary barrier. PHTA suggests that all pools, spas, and hot tubs should be protected.

Members of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) are committed to the safe use and enjoyment of pools, spas, and hot tubs, and adhere to a code of business ethics.

• Always seek the advice of a qualified pool and spa professional when creating a safety checklist and ensure that those who maintain your aboveground/onground pool are trained to maximize the “Layers of Protection.” Remember, safety is ultimately your responsibility as the pool owner.

To maximize your enjoyment, work with a PHTA member firm.

contact with children whenever they are near, or can get near, any body of water. Unfortunately, most accidents occur when there is a lapse in supervision, even for a short time.

Recognizing this, PHTA supports the concept of “Layers of Protection” for pools, spas, and hot tubs— an idea that is widely embraced by safety experts.

“Layers of Protection” means that, in addition to supervision, the pool, spa, or hot tub is equipped with several devices to delay a child’s unsupervised access or warn of the child’s presence.

These layers should be aimed at protecting the area between the house and pool, since studies show that children are most at risk in their own backyards, when parents believe they are safely inside the house.

• Maintain your pool water. A “green pool” with no or little visibility of the bottom can hide a drowning child. If your pool’s filtration system is out of order, or the chemicals are out of balance and you can’t correct the situation yourself, call a pool professional for help, or drain the pool.

Primary barriers are devices that keep a child away from a pool, spa, or hot tub; for example, barriers

For aboveground pools, always make sure to remove the ladder whenever the pool is not in use.

The information in this brochure lists a number of options that should be evaluated as possible components of a layered approach to safety. PHTA cannot endorse or evaluate the effectiveness of any individual product, but encourages parents to investigate several of the listed options in the context of the type of pool, spa, or hot tub they have, the ages of children likely to be in the area, and neighborhood and topographical factors. Some of the products listed here are new and represent significant technological advances over what was available just a few years ago.

For additional information, see ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs, and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC).

To locate a PHTA member in your area, visit phta.org/find-a-professional

For more free consumer safety information, visit: www.PHTA.org www.PoolSafely.gov www.CDC.gov/healthywater/swimming www.NDPA.org

1650 King St., Ste. 602, Alexandria, VA 22314 5575 Tech Center Dr., Ste. 109, Colorado Springs, CO 80919

• Do not allow anyone to hold their breath underwater for an extended period of time (more than 30 seconds). This can lead to loss of consciousness and drowning even in a shallow pool.

Exercise and Fitness

To Help Protect Pool, Spa, and Hot Tub Users — Especially Children Under Five Years of Age

Your aboveground/onground swimming pool provides a place for convenient, effective exercise. It can be used for both serious lap swimming and for performing calisthenics and other exercises. Consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.

Before entering the pool, it is recommended that you do warm up exercises first. To prevent unpleasant sensations, always test the water temperature before entering the pool.

Likewise, when exiting the pool after strenuous exercise, take care to adjust to being “back on land” again. Your muscles may be fatigued, the air may feel cold and the wet ground around you may pose a slipping hazard.

Lap swimming is perhaps the best form of aerobic conditioning — you can efficiently exercise your heart without placing stress on your weight- bearing joints and the lumbar spine. According to Dr. Jane Katz, author of Swimming for Total Fitness, moving the arms and legs against the resistance of water is similar to exercising with weights, but since water doesn’t allow any sudden, harmful movements and your body is buoyant, the risk of injury is lowered.

Exercises for flexibility, aerobics, and strength are easier in water than on land because being in water effectively lessens the pull of gravity on your body. It is easier (particularly for older people or those with painful joints or weak leg muscles) to do calisthenics in water.

Your pool is an excellent place to exercise. But use good judgment in monitoring your own exercise and in supervising others who exercise in your pool. Do not use the pool alone!

Entertaining

Your pool can be the focal point for happy entertaining. Plan ahead to prevent accidents and injuries and to make your entertaining truly enjoyable.

• Never leave the pool unsupervised when anyone is in the pool area. The supervisor or “water watcher” is responsible for constant visual supervision of the pool.

• Whether having a party or just having a few people over for a swim, think about the number of invited guests and their swimming skills. Plan ahead; children require constant attention.

• Food and drink play an important part in entertaining. Establish an area away from the pool for refreshments. This will prevent debris from falling into the pool and prevent accidental falls caused by spilled food or drink.

Alcohol and drugs do not mix with pool activities.

• Your guests probably will be barefooted while near the pool. Use only unbreakable dishes, beverage containers, and utensils. Never use glass anywhere near the pool. Broken glass is hard to see in water and extremely difficult to get out of the support system. If glass should break and fall into the water, it may be necessary to drain, clean and refill the pool. Better to set a strict “no glass” rule for the pool area.

• Keep electrical appliances a significant distance from the pool. Don’t use extension cords. Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) on any appliance or electrical device that is used poolside. Where possible, use battery-operated appliances around the pool. Electrocution from appliances and telephones in contact with water is a real danger.

Entertaining 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.

• Insist that poor swimmers or non-swimmers stay in water depths that are not over their shoulders. Do not assume that everyone near or in the water can swim well or will know what to do in the event of an emergency.

• Wherever practical, anyone who uses your pool should shower with soap and water before use. Showering before use washes away many of the common skin bacteria and removes lotions, deodorants, creams, etc. Perspiration and lotions will reduce the effectiveness of the pool disinfectant and lessen the ability of the filter to work efficiently.

• People with skin, ear, genital, or other body infections, open sores, or wounds, etc. should not use the pool because of the possibility of spreading infection.

• Young children and infants must ALWAYS wear sealed “swim diapers” in case of bowel movement while in the pool. Otherwise, there is significant risk of unpleasant infection to the child and everyone in the pool.

• Urinating in the pool is NOT acceptable. Urine combines with chlorine to form chloramines – ineffective as a disinfectant and a skin, eye, and lung irritant in high concentrations. Add “No Pee in the Pool” to your Pool Rules and signage.

• If you use your pool at night, provide adequate lighting in and around the pool so that the pool bottom is clearly visible.

• The use of alcohol or drugs does not mix with pool activities. Alcohol can instill false courage or “bravado,” leading people to try things they normally would not, such as horseplay or diving in aboveground/onground swimming pools. Therefore, persons who have been drinking alcohol should not be allowed in the pool and should be carefully supervised in the area surrounding the pool. Alcohol is directly related to 50-80% of diving accidents. The effects of alcohol are a major contributor to all other types of pool accidents.

• Prescription medicines sometimes cause drowsiness or have other side effects. If you are taking prescription medicine, check with your doctor before using the pool.

• Using inflatable toys, rafts, and floats in your pool can be fun. Remember that they are also deflatable. Poor swimmers or nonswimmers should use them only in shallow water.

• Games that may appear safe sometimes are not. Encourage and supervise the use of good pool games and toys.

• Always obey and enforce safety rules. Insist that there be no running, pushing, or roughhousing near the pool. Never throw anyone into the pool.

• Prohibit activities such as diving through an inner tube. Serious head or neck injuries can occur regardless of water depth, due to hitting the head on the inner tube and/or the bottom or side of the pool.

• Help guests who have removed eyeglasses or contact lenses for swimming. Be aware that their depth perception and ability to judge distance are changed. Children especially may be unaware of the difference.

• Do not allow running on the pool deck, as injuries may occur from slips and falls.

• Stay out of your pool during lightning or rainstorms because there is a possibility of electrocution from the lightning hitting the water.

• You have the bottom-line responsibility in poolside entertaining. Use good judgment to help protect yourself, your family, and guests. Prohibit use of the pool by persons whose condition or ability you doubt. Remember, you are in charge of your pool, and may be legally liable if someone is injured.

Supervise your pool activities!

Overall Safe Operation and Maintenance of Your Aboveground/ Onground Pool

Keeping your pool in top operating form is very important to help ensure the safety of those who use it and to protect your investment. Carefully read, understand, and follow the operating and maintenance instructions supplied by the pool manufacturer and the manufacturers of associated products (e.g., filters, pumps, chemicals). This booklet is not intended to replace information supplied by manufacturers.

A good general rule is to visually inspect your pool area and equipment regularly. If anything looks broken, worn, corroded, frayed or not right, contact your pool professional for advice and repairs. A simple repair or replacement may prevent an injury or save a life. It may also prevent more serious or expensive equipment problems.

Equipment In and Around the Pool

• A variety of accessories are available to complement your pool. Be aware of all precautions related to the installation, use, and maintenance of these products. It makes sense to pay special attention to educating children about safety precautions. Teach your children about equipment maintenance and proper upkeep of the pool. As they get older, your children will learn from your example that they must respect the pool and surrounding area and act responsibly.

• Pool slides and diving boards require a greater water depth than is available in an aboveground/onground pool. Therefore, they must not be used with aboveground/onground pools.

• Trampolines must never be used with aboveground/onground pools.

• A deck around your pool can add beauty and enjoyment. Be sure your deck has a slip-resistant surface with adequate drainage. Many injuries occur from slips and falls, and the wet deck or patio surface around your spa or hot tub can increase the risk of accidents. Keep the deck or patio clean and clear of all debris. Check periodically for signs of wear and tear, which may make these surfaces hazardous. Remember that diving, jumping or sliding into an aboveground/onground pool is prohibited even if you have an attached deck: ensure that No Diving signs are visible from the deck!

• Rope and Float Lines. If your pool is furnished with a rope and float line, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.

• Pool Covers. Pool covers are a benefit to you in terms of saving energy, water conservation, and some types of covers help keep debris out of the pool. For safe installation, use, and maintenance of these covers, carefully read and follow the directions of the manufacturer. These are not safety covers. They do not prevent drowning or entry into the pool. For more information see “Drowning Prevention Tips.”

• Avoid the possibility of someone being trapped under the pool cover by always completely removing the cover from outside of the pool before use. Never swim under the cover. Drain any standing water from the surface of your pool cover (e.g., by using a water pump). Even a small amount of water may be sufficient for a small child to drown on top of the cover.

• Safety Covers. If you use a pool cover as a safety cover, it must comply with ASTM F1346-91 Standard Performance Specification for Safety Covers and Labeling Requirements for All Covers for Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs. Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.

Ladders, Steps, & Handrails

Never allow anyone to swim between the ladder and the pool wall or through the ladder steps. They can become entrapped and may drown.*

Only use an aboveground/onground pool ladder or staircase to enter or exit your pool.

• Ladders may be slippery when wet. Use caution! Always assist young children when using the ladder.

• It is the pool owner’s responsibility to secure the pool against unauthorized, unsupervised, or unintentional entry.

• Prevent unauthorized or unsupervised 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.

• Allow only one person at a time on the ladder. Never allow anyone to dive or jump from ladders, steps, or from the ladder platform.

• Check all nuts and bolts regularly to make sure the ladder stays sturdy and safe.

• Permanently installed ladders, handrails, and swimming pool steps must be securely mounted. Routinely inspect them to ensure that they are firmly in place. Check for broken treads, sharp edges, and loose bolts and nuts. Keep handrails, steps, and ladders unobstructed for use. Don’t use them for hanging towels or goggles, tying up rubber rafts, and the like.

* Eleven year-old Taylor Velargo drowned on June 11, 2000, when he became entrapped while attempting to swim through the risers of an aboveground pool ladder.

Drowning Hazards WARNING

Fittings, Grates, and Drain Covers

• The suction from a drain or outlet can cause hair or body entrapment and drowning.

• Never enter the pool if a suction fitting or suction outlet cover (drain cover) is loose, cracked, broken, or 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 or drowning. Tell children, particularly, 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 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 drain covers must comply with the latest edition of ANSI/APSP/ICC-16 American National Standard for Suction Outlet Fitting Assemblies (SOFA) for Use in Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs. If a drain cover is in compliance, it will be marked: VGBA-2017. If the drain cover is not marked with the “VGBA-2017”, the pool should not be used

until the drain cover is replaced. If you need assistance to determine this, please consult the pool manufacturer or a pool professional.* To search for a PHTA member professional in your area, visit https://www.phta.org/find-a-professional/.

• Anyone with long hair should be cautioned not to get their hair near a pool outlet. Hair entanglement is the leading cause of entrapment. The suction can cause hair or body entrapment and drowning. Never allow a child to play in a way that could permit the child’s hair to come near the drain cover. If you have long hair, pin it up or wear a bathing cap. For further consumer awareness information, visit the website of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at CPSC.gov and the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance at PHTA.org.

Filter Systems

• Filtration equipment requires care in handling as well as regular maintenance and replacement of parts to function properly and efficiently. Any replacement pump capacity must not exceed the maximum rated flow marked on the suction outlet cover.

• Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintaining, servicing, or repairing a filter or separation tank. Regularly inspect this equipment while it is turned off and always replace worn or damaged parts.

• Some filter systems can maintain internal pressure even when shut off. Never inspect or perform work on your filter equipment without turning the system off and bleeding off the internal pressure through the manual valve provided for that purpose. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

* PHTA member companies are independent contractors and are not employees or agents of PHTA.

• When you restart your filter after maintenance or when you are turning on your equipment to put your pool in operation, always bleed off the air in your filter tank and then stand back.

• Always securely clamp the top and bottom of a two-piece filter in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Serious bodily injury or death can result if the top of a two- piece filter is blown off by air pressure in the tank. If you are at all unsure of how to proceed, ask your pool professional.

Heaters

• Heaters produce carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas. Do not place heaters under or near windows. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.

• Heaters should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and should be in accordance with state, provincial, or local government regulations or fire codes. Heaters may be hot to the touch. Do not place or drape any flammable material (e.g., a towel or tee shirt) on top of or near a heater.

• If you wish to use a propane heater, consult local regulations for the safe use, hookup, and storage of propane products. These regulations may be under the control of local fire or municipal departments, county building codes, etc. Learn your local regulations and follow them.

• With propane or natural gas heaters, when lighting or relighting the pilot or turning the heater on or off, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on the name and rating plate. This plate is attached to the heater inside the control compartment. Following these instructions will prevent injuries. Gas is explosive and flammable.

• Regular inspection and maintenance of a propane or natural gas heating system is a must. If any part of the system appears worn, damaged, corroded or otherwise inoperative, discontinue use and contact a professional immediately.

• If a gas fired heater is installed indoors it must be vented to the outside.

Adequate Lighting

If the pool is used after dusk, adequate lighting must be provided. Illumination must be sufficient to see swimmers in the pool and allow swimmers to clearly judge pool depth as well as all features in and around the pool. Consult your local licensed electrical contractor for recommendations.

First Aid

Preventing an emergency is the best preparation: Never leave a child alone in or near a pool or any other body of water.

CUTS, CONTUSIONS, AND ABRASIONS.

The pool environment, as well as associated products and equipment, can be a source of injury to users. Slipping and falling can result in cuts or scrapes or broken legs and arms. Horseplay, improper use of equipment, 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.

ELECTRICAL SHOCK/ ELECTROCUTION.

Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Electrical shock or electrocution can occur in a pool if live electrical current flowing through appliances and devices (including current from a telephone) comes into contact with the water. Make sure all electrical appliances and devices are protected by a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, or GFCI, and that no electrical outlet is within 6 feet of the pool wall.

At outdoor facilities, people should leave the water at the first sound of thunder or at the first sight of lightning. The CDC recommends waiting at least 30 minutes after a storm before resuming activities. The beginning and the end of a storm are the most dangerous times.

Have a complete first aid kit at poolside and make sure that someone knows how to use the contents properly. Post your address and a list of emergency

telephone numbers in a visible location. This list should contain the names and telephone numbers of the closest physician, ambulance service, hospital and police, fire, or rescue unit. If you are unsure of whether something is an emergency, err on the side of caution and call 9-1-1. At least one responsible adult should be trained in artificial respiration and/or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It is performed to restore and maintain breathing and circulation and to provide oxygen and blood flow to the heart, brain, and other vital organs. CPR can save the life of victims of respiratory or cardiac arrest as a result of drowning, heart attack, or other causes. CPR training is available through the local chapters of the American Red Cross at https:// www.redcross.org/take-a-class or through the American Heart Association at CPR.Heart.org.

In Case of Emergency

1. Dial the local emergency telephone numbers (9-1-1, or the appropriate 10-digit number for Emergency Medical Service [EMS], Fire or Police). It is advisable to have a mobile/cordless telephone available in the pool or spa/hot tub area.

2. Give your: A. Name, B. Location, and C. Telephone number you are calling from.

3. Tell what happened and how many people need help.

4. Don’t hang up the phone until after the emergency person does. The water watcher and other responsible adults should be trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). CPR is the combination of rescue breathing and artificial circulation for victims of respiratory or cardiac arrest as a result of drowning, heart attack, or other causes. CPR training is available through the local chapters of the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.

Lifesaving Equipment

Plan ahead for potential emergency situations by owning and being familiar with basic lifesaving equipment and procedures. Have at poolside a device such as a solid pole or a rope that can provide immediate assistance to a person in trouble. Make sure that any flotation rescue equipment used is Coast Guard approved, such as a type III life jacket or ring buoy. Practice using these devices correctly to be ready in an emergency. Use these devices only for emergencies. Do not allow children to play with lifesaving equipment.

Lifesaving equipment should be stored in a location that is visible and readily available to users of the pool. If proper equipment is not available in an emergency situation, throw something 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.

Preventing an emergency is the best preparation:

Automatic Pool Cleaners

Automatic pool cleaners, vacuums, or robots, especially those that use a hose, cable, or cord, should be removed from the pool completely before swimmers enter the pool. This removes the potential for entanglement in the cleaning system while swimming and helps prevent injury or drowning.

Children swimming in a pool with a cleaner present or in use may confuse it with a pool toy and attempt to play with the cleaner, increasing chances of entanglement.

Other Pool Equipment

Other pool maintenance equipment, such as poles, brushes, leaf rakes, skimmers, chlorine/chemical floaters, etc. should be removed from the pool and from the immediate pool area and safely stored when swimmers are in the pool. This prevents injury from tripping and hitting equipment while swimming or playing. Children can confuse floaters for toys and be exposed to high chemical concentrations.

Chemical Handling

The chemicals needed for your pool help keep the water balanced, disinfected, and more attractive to use. But, remember that these chemicals are potentially dangerous and may present some hazards if not used properly. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the use and storage of chemicals.

Using Chemicals

• Use an EPA-registered sanitizer and follow the use directions on the label to protect against the spread of infection. Do not assume that because the water is clear that it has been properly sanitized. Periodically check the sanitizer levels to ensure that they are maintained according to the label directions.

• Keep the pool clean and clear of debris. For safety’s sake, swimmers and supervisors must be able to clearly see the bottom drain or bottom of the pool so as to be able to make intelligent decisions about pool use.

• Keep the pool filled to its proper level. Periodically check the water level.

• When opening your pool each year, have the water professionally tested to ensure safe water quality and replace the test kit reagents.

• Never add chemicals to the pool water while swimmers are using the pool.

• Always read and follow label instructions. Always add chemicals slowly to water. Never add water to chemicals. If it is necessary to pre-dissolve the chemical, put water in the pail first, then add the chemical. If the directions call for pre- dissolving a dry chemical, use a plastic pail of water. Be sure to only add chemicals from a single product, and never mix or stir chemicals with your hand.

Do not mix different chemicals together.

Adding chemicals from different packages can result in the mixing of incompatible chemicals, which can lead to fire, explosion, or release of toxic gases.

• Never mix two chemicals together. Use a clean dry scoop for each chemical. Never combine material from “old” and “new” containers. Do not return a wet scoop to the chemical container.

• When preparing water solutions for feeder application (e.g., disinfectant or soda ash), pour the chemical slowly into the appropriate amount of water, stirring constantly to provide mixing and dilutions. Do not stir with your hands — use a clean, dry, non-metallic utensil.

• Carefully clean up any spilled chemicals according to the label directions. Check with local authorities before disposing of any chemicals. Do not put spilled material back in the original container. Clean or dispose of containers according to the manufacturer’s label instructions.

• To eliminate risk of fire, explosion, or poisoning, rinse empty disinfectant containers thoroughly with water before disposing of them.

• Test the water in your pool with a reliable test kit on a schedule specified by the sanitizer label or as recommended by your pool professional. Regularly have your pool water thoroughly tested by a professional pool care specialist, such as at a pool and spa specialty store. They can test for chemical levels and conditions not usually available in most residential water test kits. This should be done monthly to ensure proper water balance and to avoid destruction of pool equipment or unnecessary use of chemicals. The more people who use your pool, the more frequently you should test the water. Add the necessary chemicals according to the test results and the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Chemicals for test kits should be replaced each year.

• Do not inhale dust or fumes from any pool chemicals. If necessary, use protective devices for breathing, handling, and eye protection. Promptly wash off any residues that get on your skin.

• Never reuse old chemical containers.

• If you have any questions regarding safe handling, storage, or use of pool chemicals, contact the manufacturers.

Chemical Storage

• NEVER consolidate chemicals from separate partial containers into a single container because this practice can lead to mixing of incompatible chemicals (e.g., different types of chlorinating agents). Fire, explosion, release of toxic gases, injury, and property damage can result from mixing incompatible chemicals.

• Read the labels and directions carefully before using chemicals. Follow label instructions for use, storage, spill, and disposal of pool chemicals.

• Keep all chemicals out of the reach of children. Do not allow children to handle pool and spa chemicals. They are usually poisonous and highly reactive. They can easily cause severe chemical burns to skin, mucous membranes, and eyes.

• Burns/Fires — Chemicals needed for clean, sanitized water are potentially harmful when improperly stored or used. If mixed with other chemicals or elements, explosions and fire can occur. Read the label and follow manufacturer’s instructions!

• Keep the original lids on all chemical containers and make sure the lids are closed tightly when not in use.

• Do not stack different chemicals on top of one another.

• Store your pool chemicals in a clean, cool, dry, well-ventilated area preferably off the floor, to prevent contamination from other materials. Especially do not store chemicals near the pool heater. Keep them away from chemicals and equipment used for garden and lawn maintenance. Keep acids away from other chemicals.

• Keep liquid chemicals away from dry chemicals. Keep apart chemicals that are different forms of chlorine, bromine, and shock products (oxidizing compounds). Physically separate all different forms of chemicals. Chemicals that are labeled as “oxidizers” should be kept apart from other chemicals.

• Do not store your pool chemicals where other flammable items may mix with them. For example, a mixture of pool chemicals and fertilizer can cause a fire or explosion.

• If diluting liquid acid to add into the pool, ALWAYS add Acid into Water, never Water into Acid. A good rule to remember is “alphabetical order: A into W.” Adding water to acid can cause violent reactions and injury.

• When carrying swimming pool chemicals in your vehicle, ensure that they cannot spill into each other or come into contact with each other, in case of accident or rupture of a container. Violent chemical reactions and release of poisonous gasses can result. A better idea is to never purchase reactive chemicals such as chlorine and acid at the same time.

• Wash your hands thoroughly after using chemicals.

Electrical Maintenance

Working with electricity is a job best left to the experts. Here are some general safety rules and precautions for electrical maintenance:

• Before working with any electrical equipment, make sure the electricity is turned off at the circuit breaker or fuse box.

• Make sure that there are no electrical outlets within 6 feet of the pool and that all electrical outlets near the pool are protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs are designed to prevent electrical shock. They are a kind of “fail safe” device that can shut off

electrical current in fractions of seconds. Ask a licensed electrician for more details.

• If you have any frayed cords, loose connections, sparking or arcing, turn off the power at the circuit breaker and call for a licensed electrician.

• Have a licensed electrician inspect and test all equipment prior to initial operation and before each season.

• Never replace bulbs or underwater light fixtures yourself. Get an expert to do this for you.

• Do not let water accumulate on floor or deck areas where electrical switches are located.

• Do not stand in water while operating electrical components.

• To safely use electricity in and around your pool, you must have equipment expressly designed for this purpose. Consult with a licensed electrician for help in equipping your pool side area correctly for electricity. Ask the licensed electrician to be aware of any local electrical codes that apply in your area. Ensure that your pool and its equipment are designed and installed to conform to the National Electrical Code for pools and related equipment. Electrical work, especially in wet areas, is not for “do-it-yourselfers” or other amateurs. Contract with a licensed electrician to make sure that all of your outside electrical lines (not just those for the pool, its equipment, and accessories, but also for other appliances used outside as well) are protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs are designed to help protect against the hazards of electrical shock.

• If you are installing your own pool, it is your responsibility to make certain that all work performed complies with the National Electrical Code and all other applicable codes and regulations.

Recommended Use of Professionals

For your protection, only pool professionals, licensed electricians, gas fitters, builders, carpenters, or other appropriate experts should perform the following services:

• Selection, installation, and servicing of electrical equipment, heaters, and filters.

• Inspection and replacement of vinyl liners.

• Building of walls, fences, and other barriers as layers of protection.

• Annual inspection of all pool equipment and accessories.

• Replacement and repair of electrical wires and pool light apparatus.

• Search for a PHTA member professional in your area, visit PHTA.org/MemberLocator.

Parents and Pool Owners Notice to

It is your responsibility to enforce the rules of safety. A good exercise is to have each of your children and other pool users read this booklet and sign in one of the spaces indicated below. This will help you enforce the rules by referring 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 when swimming and around pools and hot tubs.

Signature

Print Name

PARENTS: The life and health of you, your children, your family members, and friends and neighbors are protected by practicing sensible and safe pool activities.