A recent investigative report by NBC News revealed that the majority of public swimming pools and spas across the United States do not have anti-entrapment drain covers in place. The report comes six months after the deadline in which all public pools had to be retrofitted with a new cover, as mandated by The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. The old drain covers have entrapped hundreds of people for several years, causing serious injury and death.
Do you know if the public pools near you have installed anti-entrapment drain covers? Do you care? Share Your Experiences
I dont kow
- I don't know about the covers but was horrified to hear on the news two days ago of a young boy on holiday in Thailand who had lifted the cover to recover his goggles and was swallowed up. It really upset me and I vowed the next pool I go in I will check. Thanks for reminding me.
- —ElaineLemm
Being Prepared
- When I nannied for a friend, pool drains weren't a well-known hazard. At least now the danger is getting better known, and with the law in place you have a lot more leverage when dealing with pool owners and managers. Thank you, Lisa, for spreading the word!
- —BethPete
I'm not sure
- I'd better check that out. I frequent my local outdoor pool. Thanks for putting this bug in my head.
- —Barb.Rolek
I haven't been to the pool lately
- but I think it's a good idea. No amount of money can be compared to the cost of a child's life, so there is no excuse for not complying.
- —Guest Jennifer
Some Do, Some Don't
- The biggest pool which is in our city park has the new drain covers. I know this because it was in the newspaper earlier this year. There have been reports of some local hotels that don't have the covers, but I don't know for sure. I DO care and wouldn't go swimming in a pool that did not have one of those new drain covers in place. I've seen pictures on the news of children's injuries and it is just horrible!
- —DIYTrish
