A significant recall of more than 5 million above-ground swimming pools has been issued following tragic incidents where nine children drowned over a 15-year period. The affected pools from Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup are 48 inches tall and above and utilize compression straps that encircle the pool on the exterior of the supporting poles. The straps have been identified as potential footholds that could enable a child to enter the pool unsupervised, leading to hazardous situations.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission cCPSCc highlighted that these straps, if misused, could allow children to access the pool and drown, even if the ladder is removed. Disturbingly, the CPSC revealed that nine children aged between 22 months and 3 years lost their lives by gaining access to these pools using the footholds. Tragic incidents occurred in various states across the U.S., including California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri, spanning from 2007 to 2022.
Taking action in response to the incidents, in 2023, Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup collaborated with the CPSC and safety advocates to enhance the safety standard for above-ground pools. This initiative culminated in the finalization of an updated safety standard in May 2025, with a specific focus on preventing unsupervised children from using the compression straps as footholds. The companies emphasized that most above-ground pools currently available, standing at 48 inches or taller, have already addressed this safety concern.
Despite improvements in newer pool models, the recall extends to all above-ground pools 48 inches or taller that have been marketed since 2002. These recalled pools have been sold at various retailers across the U.S., including Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Costco, and Amazon, with approximately 266,000 units also distributed in Canada. Product information, such as brand names and model numbers, can be found on the pool liner exterior.
Consumers who own these recalled pools are urged to contact Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup to obtain a complimentary repair kit that includes a replacement rope for the compression strap. Until the repair is applied, the CPSC advises ensuring that children are unable to access the pool without supervision or draining the pool. By taking necessary precautions and making the repairs promptly, potential risks associated with these above-ground swimming pools can be mitigated.
In the wake of this significant recall, it serves as a reminder for consumers to prioritize safety when using recreational products, particularly those involving water activities. The collaboration between the manufacturers and the CPSC underscores the importance of vigilance in addressing safety concerns promptly to prevent avoidable accidents and tragedies. Through awareness, responsible ownership, and adherence to safety guidelines, incidents like these concerning above-ground pools can be minimized, promoting a safer environment for users of such products.