Above‑Ground Pools Recalled After 9 Child Drownings: What You Need to Know
Published: July 21, 2025 | By Antony Locke
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (**CPSC**) and Health Canada have issued a voluntary recall of around **5 million above‑ground pools** sold since 2002. This action comes after tragic reports that **nine children**, aged 22 months to three years, drowned after climbing into the pools using external compression straps that act as footholds. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
🔍 What Models Are Affected?
Recalled pools are 48 inches or taller and include models from:
- Bestway & Coleman (2008–2024)
- Intex (2002–2012), plus select 2024–25 online models
- Polygroup (2006–2025), including Summer Waves & Funsicle series
These pools were sold at big retailers like Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, Costco, Home Depot, Sam’s Club, Sears, Kmart, Toys “R” Us, BJ’s, Big Lots, and from online outlets including Amazon and Wayfair. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
⚠️ Why This Recall Matters
Many families might think removing the ladder is enough—but these compression straps wrap around the vertical legs and give toddlers a stepping point to access the water unsupervised. The threat became tragically real in states like California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri between 2007–2022. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
✅ Safety Steps You Should Take Now
- Locate the **pool brand & model** on the liner to check against CPSC recall number **25‑393**.
- Contact manufacturers Bestway, Intex or Polygroup for a **free repair kit**—a rope system replacing the compression strap. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Install the rope **before** cutting the old strap.
- Until then, **deny unsupervised pool access** or fully **drain** the pool.
🌍 Canadian Consumers—You're Included
About **266,000 pools** sold in Canada are also affected. Health Canada is coordinating with manufacturers to provide repair kits there as well. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
📈 Broader Safety Takeaways
This recall shines a light on a less obvious danger: small design features that can have serious consequences. With drowning as a leading cause of unintentional death in toddlers, experts stress the importance of multiple protective barriers—like fences, covers, alarms and vigilant supervision. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
🛠️ FAQ Snapshot
- When did this start? The CPSC identified deaths from 2007 through 2022.
- How much does it cost? Kits are free—covering materials and shipping.
- How long until I install? Most repairs take under 30 minutes with basic tools.
📚 Want More Info?
For detailed safety guides, visit PoolSafely.gov. To check your pool model or request a kit, go to: