Safety in and around the swimming pool or spa usually involves drowning prevention. Yet, 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:
- All outdoor receptacles should be kept covered and dry – especially those around pools, spas, and other summer water activities.
- Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) should be installed outside. They help prevent 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.
- Electrical devices and cords should be kept at least three metres away from water sources.
- Battery-operated appliances should be used instead of cord-connected appliances in and around the pool or spa.
- No one should handle electrical devices when wet either from water activities or perspiration.
- No power lines should be hovering over a swimming pool or spa.
- Going into the pool or spa before, during or after a thunderstorm is to be avoided.
- An electrician should inspect and upgrade the pool, spa or hot tub according to the Canadian Electrical Code to avoid electric shock.
- Everyone should move away from the source of the shock.
- Getting out of the water is critical. Metal ladders must not be used – they conduct electricity and may intensify the shock.
- All power must be shut off immediately to prevent rescuers from becoming victims.
- Someone must call 911.
- Someone must use a rescue hook (shepherd’s crook) to carefully pull the victim out of the water.
- The victim should be positioned on his/her back, then someone should check for breathing and administer CPR if needed.
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