Tag Archives: swimming pools

Hurricane season takes place June 1 through November 30.

There are many myths regarding throwing outdoor furniture inside pools and even draining a swimming pool before a hurricane. Both of these actions can be dangerous and detrimental to a swimming pool. Below are some tips from FSPA to help you become better prepared for a storm.

  1. Do not drain your pool before a storm. Keeping sufficient water levels in your pool provides the important weight to hold sides and bottom in place.
  2. Before and after the storm it is recommended to super chlorinate pool water.
  3. It is important that all electric power be turned off at the circuit breakers before a storm hits. Any exposed electrical equipment such as motors for the pumps should be tightly covered with plastic wrap. If flooding is expected, disconnect and remove.
  4. Storms can cause ripped lanai screens which can be expensive to replace. This can possibly be avoided if you provide a “vent” for wind to escape through. Screen panels may be removed on either side of the pool area.
  5. Remove any loose objects such as chairs, tables, pool equipment and even toys. These items can become weapons in high wind storms. Do not throw your furniture in the pool, or anything else for that matter. If you cannot store items inside a building, carefully place items in the pool, this is not recommended.
  6. After the storm use a “pool rake” or other net/skimming device to remove small debris from inside the pool. Do not use your regular pool vacuum equipment or pool pumps as they are likely to clog the plumbing.
  7. Before touching any electrical equipment after the storm, be sure that everything is dry. Check circuit breakers to be sure they are off before attempting to reconnect electrical equipment such as pump motors. Inspect wiring for proper connections. If electric motors have been exposed to water, they should be checked by a professional.
  8. Be sure clocks, timers, etc. have been properly reset and balance the water chemistry. Keep a close eye on your operating systems for a few days to ensure everything is in working order.

For more information on how to prepare for a hurricane, click here!

Did you know May is National Water Safety Month?

The Florida Swimming Pool Association is joining thousands of organizations all over the country in educating the public on swimming pool safety. Let’s work together to inform and educate on water safety and prevent drowning.

Florida loses more children under the age of five to drowning than any other state annually. There were 73 child fatalities in Florida due to drowning in 2016; children under the age of three represent 70% of that number.

FSPA wants everyone to make a SPLASH this summer:

S- Supervision. Everything can change in an instant and children should never be alone in the pool.

P- Protection. Install certified safety pool covers for the when the pool isn’t in use. Don’t swim without safety covers on drains, suction fittings and jets. Pool fences and locks are great preventative measures.

L- Lessons. You are never too old to learn how to swim and children can learn to swim as early as six months old. Lessons are the only safety device that travel with your child.

A- Action. Have an emergency plan in place and respond quickly. CPR is an invaluable tool.

S- Safety. Create a set of pool rules for your children and guests. Make sure your children understand the rules and have a conversation about safety.

H- Health. Always use the restroom before getting in the pool and always remember to wear sunscreen.

FSPA urges everyone as we enter the warmer months to find swimming lessons in their local area. Organizations such as the YMCA, The Red Cross, ISR, US Swim School Association, and Swim America are just a few examples of organizations that offer lessons. Some schools even offer free lessons to families who qualify.