Millions of Pools Recalled After Nine Drowning Tragedies

More than 5.2 million aboveground swimming pools sold across the United States and Canada are being recalled following reports of nine drowning deaths involving children. The pools, sold by major retailers since 2002, include products from Bestway, Intex Recreation, and Polygroup. Notices issued by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Health Canada detail the safety concerns associated with these pools.

The recall affects pools featuring compression straps along their outer edges, which can pose a significant danger. These straps may inadvertently provide a foothold for small children, allowing them to reach the water without supervision. The CPSC has confirmed that the reported drownings occurred between 2007 and 2022, involving children aged between 22 months and 3 years. So far, there have been no fatalities reported in Canada related to these pools.

Consumers who own the recalled pools are strongly advised to contact Bestway, Intex, or Polygroup for a free repair kit. This kit includes a rope designed to replace the existing compression strap, which enhances safety. In the interim, regulators recommend that pool owners ensure that children cannot access the pool without adult supervision or consider draining the pool until the repair is completed.

Details on the Affected Pools

The pools included in the recall measure 48 inches or taller and can be identified by their brand and model names listed on the CPSC and Health Canada recall notices. Approximately 5 million of these pools were sold in the US, both online and in physical stores, at major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, Costco, and Amazon. An additional 266,000 units were sold in Canada.

The CPSC emphasizes the importance of addressing this safety issue, highlighting the tragic consequences of unattended children gaining access to swimming pools. As the summer season approaches, the urgency of this recall is underscored, reminding consumers to prioritize safety measures around water.

In light of these developments, families are encouraged to remain vigilant while using swimming pools. By following safety guidelines and ensuring proper supervision, the risk of accidents can be significantly reduced.