Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup have initiated a recall of roughly 5 million above-ground pools due to safety concerns. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reported that the pools pose a drowning hazard for young children as the compression straps around the pool can create a foothold, allowing children to access the water unsupervised.
This urgent recall follows the tragic deaths of nine children between the ages of 22 months and 3 years old, which occurred in several states including California, Florida, and Texas from 2007 to 2022. The CPSC also noted three additional incidents involving children accessing these pools in previous years, further highlighting the potential danger.
The recall targets above-ground pools that are 48 inches or taller, specifically those sold since 2002, that feature compression straps running along the outside and over the vertical support legs. These features can enable children to climb into the pool, even when ladders are removed, raising serious safety concerns.
In a joint statement, the companies expressed their commitment to customer safety, indicating that the majority of newly sold pools already meet safety guidelines. They have taken proactive steps by offering free repair kits which include a rope system designed to secure the pool structure and prevent unintentional access.
Consumers who possess the recalled products are urged to keep children away from the pools when unsupervised and to drain the pools until the repairs can be implemented. A comprehensive list of the affected pool models can be found on the CPSC, Bestway, and Intex websites.
This move by Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup reflects a serious commitment to ensuring consumer safety and preventing further tragedies. The company’s collaboration with the CPSC and the provision of repair options demonstrates a proactive approach to product safety issues.
As a precaution, pool owners are encouraged to monitor their pools closely and explore the safety enhancements being offered through the recall to safeguard children from potential hazards associated with above-ground pools.