Pool and Spa Electrical Safety Tips

When it comes to safety in and around the swimming pool or spa, drowning is usually the first danger that comes to mind. However, a danger that is just as deadly – electrical shock – is also something to be extremely cautious of. Here are several essential pool and spa electrical safety rules:

• Keep all outdoor receptacles covered and dry – especially those around pools, spas, and other summer water activities.
• Install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) outside. They help prevent electrocutions and electric shock injuries. Using portable GFCIs also helps increase electrical safety around the pool or spa.
• All electrical equipment used for swimming pools, even the cleaning equipment, must be grounded.
• Keep electrical devices and cords at least 10 feet away from water sources.
• Use battery-operated appliances instead of cord-connected appliances in and around the pool or spa.
• Make sure nobody handles electrical devices when wet either from water activities or perspiration.
• No power lines should be hovering over a swimming pool or spa.
• Don’t go in the pool or spa before, during or after a thunderstorm.
• An electrician should inspect and upgrade your pool, spa or hot tub in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) to avoid electric shock.

The American Red Cross recommends the following plan of action in case you or someone else gets shocked in a pool:

• Move away from the source of the shock.
• Get out of the water. Don’t use a metal ladder as it is an electrical conductor and may intensify the shock.
• Immediately turn off all power to prevent rescuers from becoming victims.
• Call or make sure someone else calls 911.
• Use a rescue hook (shepherd’s crook) to carefully pull the victim out of the water.
• Position the victim on his/her back, then check for breathing and administer CPR if needed.

Using electrical devices, such as appliances, equipment and tools outdoors also poses safety risks.  For professional water damage repair or mold removal services, contact your local PuroClean office.