The mere thought of having a pool of one’s own can be a tempting idea, especially for families with young children. However, with the recent nationwide recall of above-ground swimming pools, the notion of pool ownership has become a daunting task for many parents. The recall, which affects over 5.2 million pools sold in the United States and Canada, has brought back the fears of every parent: drowning, and the ease with which it can happen to young children. Key Facts About the Recall

• More than 5.2 million pools were recalled due to a safety hazard.
• The affected pools feature compression straps on the outside.
• The recall includes pool models sold by major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Costco, Lowe’s, and Amazon.
• The recall dates back to 2002.
• Approximately 266,000 of the affected pools were sold in Canada.
• Nearly 5 million pools were sold in the U.S.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in partnership with Health Canada, reported nine drowning deaths in the U.S. between 2007 and 2022. All victims were children between 22 months and 3 years old. While no fatalities have occurred in Canada, there have been reports of near-drowning incidents in states like Wisconsin, California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, and Missouri, prompting increased attention in the Tri-States, where backyard pools are a common feature during hot summers. The recalled pools were sold at major retailers, including those mentioned earlier. The recall affects pool models 48 inches or taller, which feature compression straps on the outside. These straps can create a foothold for small children to climb into the pool unsupervised. What You Need to Do

1. Check if your pool is affected by the recall.
2. Do not ignore the recall.
3. Immediately contact the manufacturer for a free repair kit.
4. Ensure young children cannot access the pool unattended.
5. Drain the pool until repairs can be made.

The CPSC and Health Canada urge parents and caregivers to take immediate action. The recall is not a drill, and the safety of young children should always be the top priority. Many Tri-State families know the joy and relief a pool can bring during the summer heat. However, safety should never be compromised. Resources

If you or someone you know owns one of these pools, don’t ignore the recall. Take action today to ensure the safety of your family. Visit the CPSC or Health Canada websites for more information and a list of affected models.

“As a parent, there is no greater joy than providing a safe and enjoyable experience for your children. The recent pool recall is a harsh reminder of the importance of pool safety and the need for vigilance in protecting our young ones.”

“While the recall may seem like a minor issue, it highlights the importance of staying informed and taking proactive steps to prevent accidents.”

“Don’t wait until it’s too late.