Why Your Pool Security Should Include Electrical Safety
Why Your Pool Security Should Include Electrical Safety
As a pool owner you might not relate electrical safety and pool security. But more and more people are experiencing electric shocks while swimming. Learn more.
Keyword(s): pool security
Electrical safety may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of pool security.
After reading this, you may feel differently.
Since 2002, there have been 21 recorded fatalities from electrocution in swimming pools. This summer, four people were hospitalized for electrical shock from a luxury resort pool in Palm Desert.
How do you know if you're experiencing electrical shock? What should you do if someone in the pool is being shocked? And what can you do to ensure your swimming pool is safe and electrically sound?
Read on to learn why your pool security must include electrical safety.
The Hidden Dangers
Pool wiring and lighting are the most obvious electrical dangers, but there are others.
Here are some electrical dangers to watch for in and around your pool:
- Underwater lights (especially in older pools)
- All electrical equipment, including pool vacuums, pumps, and filters
- Power or extension cords
- Switches
- Outlets
- Radios, televisions, or speakers in the pool area
- Overhead power lines
Most modern pools contain ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). These immediately stop the flow of electricity to pool wiring if they detect a problem.
However, older pools built before the 1980's may not have them.
What to Do If You (Or Someone Else) Gets Shocked
How do you know if you're experiencing shock in a swimming pool?
Here are some common signs and symptoms:
- Tingling sensation
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Feeling like you're being "held" in place
- Inability to move
If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately move away from the source and exit the pool. Avoid using a metal ladder, as it can increase the shock.
If there's sudden panic in the pool or one or more swimmers go motionless, turn off all power connections and call 911. If someone is unconscious, use a rescue hook to remove them from the water.
Keep in mind that electrical shock can also occur in spas, jacuzzis, and hot tubs.
How to Be Sure Your Pool Is Safe
The most important aspect of pool security is to prevent these scenarios before they happen.
Here are seven tips for ensuring your pool is electrically safe.
- Schedule annual inspections with a licensed electrician or pool technician.
- Ensure that the power switch and GFCI are well-marked and easy to reach.
- Know where to locate all circuit breakers and how to turn them off.
- Keep emergency equipment, such as a rescue hook, nearby and easily accessible.
- If installing a new pool, make sure it's at least 25 feet away from any overhead power lines.
- Avoid touching any electrical items if your skin is wet or if you're in contact with a wet surface.
- In the pool area, use battery-operated radios, speakers, and other electrical equipment.
Keep an eye out for warning signs in your pool, such as mold, rust, or water in the lighting fixtures. Flickering lights or a buzzing sound are also signs you need an inspection.
Final Thoughts on Pool Security
Although electrocution in swimming pools is rare, it does happen. And the results can be deadly.
By using common sense and scheduling regular inspections, you can ensure your pool is safe for everyone to enjoy.
Interested in more pool safety advice? Check out our recent post on safety tips for your inground pool.