APSP Members are Committed to Safety
Swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs bring years of enjoyment. They offer an opportunity to spend time with friends and family or to relax and relieve stress alone, while also providing many health and fitness benefits.
The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals wants to help consumers use their pool, spa, or hot tub responsibly. As with many products, by following manufacturers' guidelines and simple rules, you'll have a positive, safe, enjoyable experience.
APSP continually works with nationally recognized safety groups and with federal, state, and local governments to ensure consumers are protected and have the most up-to-date information on pool, spa, and hot tub safety.
Safety Messages: Public Service Announcements - Video
Click here to view our Public Service TV ads and to listen to our radio spots, all starring Leslie Nielsen talking about pool & spa safety.
Responsible Adult Supervision is Key
There should always be an adult designated to maintain constant visual contact with children whenever they are near, or could get near, any body of water.
Entrapment Protection
An exposed suction outlet (drain) presents a serious danger to children and adults. All drains must be protected by an approved cover. If any outlet cover is broken, loose, or missing, the pool should be closed immediately, and an industry professional should be contacted to make the necessary repairs. For more information on how to prevent entrapment injuries, or to learn whether a pool or spa has the proper approved covers, contact an industry professional or the APSP.
Layers of Protection
In addition to supervision, APSP supports the concept of "layers of protection." This means the pool, spa, or hot tub is equipped with several devices to delay unsupervised access or warn of a child's presence. Following are some options for protecting children and preventing accidents:
- Fencing: Isolate the swimming pool with a minimum four-foot-high enclosure.
- Safety Covers: An impenetrable covering that completely covers the pool, spa, or hot tub will prevent access to the water when there is not supervision.
- Alarms: Alarms are available for doors, fences, in pools, and as a clip-on for children. Alarms detect unwanted entrances to your pool, spa, or hot tub.
- Rope and Float Line: Place these across the pool to alert swimmers to the separation of the deep end from the shallow end of the pool.
- Rescue Equipment: Equipment such as a life ring and shepherd's hook should be placed near the pool in an easily accessible spot.
- Posted Emergency Information: Post all CPR, other emergency information, and warning signs, as well as the emergency telephone number - 911 - near the pool, spa, or hot tub.
- Outside Telephone: Be sure to have a telephone in case you need to summon help.
For more specific information and free materials, click on the following links:
Overview of Safety Information
Free Pool, Spa, and Hot Tub Brochures