This information is for educational purposes only. It has been provided by the APSP, the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals.

Responsible Adult Supervision

Constant and responsible adult supervision is mandatory in the pool, spa, or hot tub environment.

Drains, Suction Fittings, and Jets

Current grates and covers help prevent body or hair entrapment. Make sure that drain covers meet the ANSI/ASME A112.19.8M standard. Safety doors should be installed in all pool cleaner wall suction lines. Pools, spas, or hot tubs with drain covers that are broken, missing, or not adequately secured should not be used until the proper replacement has been installed.

Diving

Any diving board, rock, platform or slide should be inspected prior to use to affirm that its installation conforms to applicable industry standards and government regulations.

Electrical Hazards

A licensed electrician, experienced in swimming pools and hot tubs, should inspect your equipment to make sure everything is properly grounded, bonded, and protected by proper GFCI circuits according to Article 680 of the National Electric Code.

Ladders, Steps and Handrails

Make sure there are adequate safe-entry and safe-exit methods in both ends of the pool and two sides of the hot tub or spa.

Drowning Prevention

Install and routinely inspect fences, self-closing and latching gates, baby barrier fences, and alarms. ASTM standards identify four types of pool alarms: one detects movement of the surface water, one measures sub-surface pressure waves, one monitors the perimeter using a laser, and one is a personal immersion alarm that is locked onto a child’s wrist. There are also alarms for doors and gates leading to the pool or hot tub area. Learn CPR. Purchase cordless phones, life rings, shepherd hooks, and lockable safety covers that meet the ASTM International F1346-91 (2003) Safety Standard.

Water Clarity

Clear water aids in identifying soakers and swimmers in distress, helps swimmers avoid collisions and is an indicator that the sanitizer, circulation, and filtration systems are functioning.

Poor water clarity suggests the presence of bacteria and/or algae or nutrients for their growth, and that the circulation and filtration systems may not be working efficiently to remove the contaminants from the water.

Water Chemistry

Proper water chemistry begins with regular sanitization and chemical balancing. APSP professionals can ensure that your pool, spa, and hot tub water is properly and safely balanced for your enjoyment and protection of your investment.

Heaters

Have an APSP professional technician make sure your heater is adequately bonded and ventilated. All hot tubs, spas, and pool heaters that are UL- or ETL-listed are designed with features to prevent overheating.

Free Water Safety Brochures

You can obtain a wealth of water safety information by visiting www.TheAPSP.org or by calling 800.323.3996.

Water Safety for Children

Kids can find games and activities on www.SplashZoneUSA.com to learn about safe water behavior.