MARANA- The Parks & Recreation Department’s Aquatics Division is hoping to raise awareness about the importance of pool drain safety heading into the summer.
Aquatics Supervisor Kevin Goodrich says he and his colleague, Recreation Programmer, Allison Rock chose this topic for this year’s #SplashSavvy Public Service Announcement because they wanted people to be aware of the dangers of pool drains and know how to respond should someone get stuck in an emergency.
“Pool drains are so powerful, they generate hundreds of pounds of suction force and can hold somebody under the water against their will until the power is shut off,” Goodrich explained.
According to the 2007 Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act, all pool drain covers must meet or exceed mandatory federal requirements for suction entrapment avoidance. If your pool was built before 2007, you are urged to inspect your pool drain covers for compliance.
If a pool drain is loose, damaged or missing, it must also be replaced right away.
IMPORTANT POOL DRAIN SAFETY CHECKS:
Avoid loose or dangling swimwear and jewelry while swimming
NEVER play with or near pool drains or outlets
Label your shut off switch, knob or handle
Know how to power down your pool pumps in the event of an emergency
Watch the 2024 #SplashSavvy PSA on Pool Drain Safety
