Over 5 million above-ground swimming pools are being recalled due to safety concerns following reports that nine children have drowned over a 15-year period. The recall affects pools from Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup that are 48 inches tall or greater. These pools utilize compression straps that can create footholds, potentially allowing children to climb into the pool even if a ladder is removed, raising the risk of drowning.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that the tragic incidents occurred between 2007 and 2022 in several states, including California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri. The children involved were aged between 22 months and 3 years.
In response to these concerns, the three manufacturers have collaborated with the CPSC and safety advocates to enhance safety standards for above-ground pools. The updated safety standard, finalized in May 2025, aims to prevent unsupervised access to pools by addressing the foothold issue created by the compression straps on the outside of the pool’s legs.
Companies have reassured consumers that most above-ground pools being sold today already conform to the new safety standards. The recall, which applies to pools sold since 2002, aims to address safety for all products 48 inches or taller.
These pools were available at major retailers including Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Costco, and Amazon, with approximately 266,000 of the recalled pools sold in Canada.
Consumers can obtain a free repair kit from Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup, which includes a replacement rope to eliminate the foothold risk. In the meantime, the CPSC advises that parents ensure children cannot access the pools without supervision or drain the pools until repairs are completed.
This recall serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of pool safety, emphasizing the need for vigilant supervision and proper safety measures to protect children during the summer months. Taking proactive steps can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment for children enjoying the water.