Will your kids swim safely this summer?

Now that summer is upon us, many South Floridians will cool off by jumping into the pool.  But be careful before you dive in.

On May 26, 2011, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced that eight manufacturers have voluntarily recalled one million pool and in-ground spa drain covers due to faulty water flow ratings.  According to the Commission, the recalled drain covers pose an entrapment hazard to swimmers.

The drain covers were required by law after young children continued to get stuck in pool drains and many were very seriously injured.  However, many of these covers have failed safety tests.  Additionally, the lab that certified most of the drain covers did not accurately recreate the suction found in a pool or a spa.

The manufacturers who have recalled their products include A&A Manufacturing and Color Match Pool Fittings of Arizona, AquaStar Pool Products Inc. and Waterway Plastic of California, Custom Molded Products of Georgia, Hayward Pool Products of New Jersey, Pentair Water Pool and Spa of North Carolina, and Rising Dragon USA of Tennessee.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is urging that pools across the country to remain closed until new drain covers are put in place.

The majority of the defective drain covers were manufactured between December 2008 and April 2011.  Consumers who have purchased a drain cover that has been recalled should contact the manufacturer in order to receive a replacement.  If you are unsure who has manufactured your pool cover, it is best to contact a professional to assist you.  You can also learn more about the recall on the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals website or contact the Association’s drain cover recall hotline at (866) 478-3521.