About 5 million above-ground pools have been recalled following their connection to the deaths of nine children from 2007 to 2022. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the nationwide recall Monday in coordination with pool manufacturers including Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup. The recall targets pools with an exterior compression strap that encircles the pool’s vertical support legs.
Compression Strap Presents Access Hazard for Above-Ground Pools
The CPSC warns that the compression strap can act as a foothold, allowing young children to climb into the pool even if the ladder has been removed. This structural feature, designed to stabilize the pool, has inadvertently created a drowning risk for children between 22 months and 3 years old. The tragic drownings took place in six states: California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri. Beyond the nine confirmed deaths, the agency is aware of three additional incidents involving children accessing pools via the compression strap.
Retailers and Models Included in Pool Recall
The recalled pools are 48 inches or taller and were sold at a wide array of U.S. stores and online retailers, including major chains such as Walmart, Target, Amazon, The Home Depot, Costco, BJ’s, and Wayfair. The pools were manufactured in China and branded under Bestway, Coleman, Intex, and Polygroup names.
Free Repair Kits Available
Pool owners are urged to contact Bestway, Intex, or Polygroup to receive a free repair kit that replaces the compression strap with a rope positioned closer to the ground, removing the foothold for children. Meanwhile, the CPSC advises that children should not be allowed unsupervised access to the pools or that pools should be drained until repairs can be made. Images included in the recall alert show how easily a child can stand on the compression strap to enter the water independently.
This recall highlights a persistent safety hazard in a familiar backyard product, prompting action to prevent further tragedies.
Exploring Legal Paths After Above-Ground Pool Recall: Interview with Drowning Accident Lawyer
Millions of recalled above-ground pools have been linked to tragic child drownings, raising urgent questions about safety and accountability. Our team sat down with Michael Haggard, an experienced drowning accident lawyer, to discuss the legal options available to families affected by these incidents. They explored how victims and survivors can navigate claims related to the recall, the role of product liability, and the steps pool owners should take when facing injuries or losses tied to dangerous pool designs. This conversation offers critical guidance for those seeking justice after near-drowning or fatal accidents involving recalled pools.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Michael, with this large-scale recall linked to tragic drownings, what legal options do families have if their child was involved in a near-drowning or worse?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: Families affected by incidents involving these recalled pools can explore legal remedies, including product liability claims. If the pool’s design contributed to harm, manufacturers can be held responsible for failing to prevent foreseeable risks.
Banville: Can those who experienced a near-drowning but survived still take legal action?
Haggard: Absolutely. Near-drowning incidents can cause severe trauma and lasting health issues. Victims have grounds for compensation related to medical expenses, pain, and suffering. It’s important they consult an attorney familiar with pool safety cases promptly.
Banville: What advice would you give to pool owners who might be impacted by the recall?
Haggard: Pool owners should immediately follow recall instructions to fix or disable the pool and keep children away until it’s safe. If an injury or death has occurred, connecting with a lawyer experienced in product safety and wrongful death cases can help protect their rights and seek justice for their loved ones.
Take Action Now: Secure Your Family’s Future with a Free Legal Consultation
If your family has been affected by incidents involving recalled above-ground pools, don’t wait to explore your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can support you in seeking the compensation you deserve. Above ground pool recall drowning lawyer Michael Haggard is here to protect your loved ones and ensure your voice is heard—help is just a call away.
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Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
