Product Recalls and How to Navigate Them

You may have seen several above ground pools in America and Canada were recalled this summer. Let’s break down what this means, how to keep your children safe in and around these pools and tips for what to do when you see a recall reported.  

What this Recall Means

More than 5.2 million pools that were sold by major retailers from Bestway, Intex Recreation and Polygroup dating as far back as 2002 were recently recalled due to a compression strap running on the outside of the product. This strap created a foothold that children could potentially use to access the pool rather than using the designated ladder entrance, as shown in the photo below. 

The reason why this poses a danger to children is the easy access to the pool could result in a child climbing on the pool and accidentally falling in or trying to access the pool without parent supervision. When recalls happen, it is important to evaluate if your product is a part of the recall. Use the guide below to see what pools were NOT recalled.

Consumers were advised to stop using the product until they could access a free repair kit which includes a rope to replace the compression strap, eliminating the potential risk of a child accessing the pool from the side.  

What To Do When You Hear About a Recall  

• Stop using the product immediately  
• Visit the product's official website to learn about the recall
• Check for specific recall instructions, like returning the product.
• Follow safety channels like Safe Kids Worldwide for advice and guidance  
• Consult with your pediatrician for further information if you have questions

Hearing about recalls can be scary for parents, but it doesn't have to be. By following the guidance of trusted agencies like Safe Kids Worldwide, you can know you are getting safe, reliable information to help you keep safety top of mind.