SOLON, Ohio–Temperatures continue to rise, leaving many eagerly awaiting the opening day at their neighborhood pool.
Now, the U.S. Product Consumer Safety Commission is issuing the recall of one million pool and spa drain covers.
“The e-mail was a little nerve-wrecking,” said Rich Parker, community center manager of the Solon Recreation Department. “Some of our drain covers are from the manufacturer that is affected by the recall. We’re fortunate enough that our drain sizes are not a part of that recall.”
Eight manufacturers are a part of the recall. The drain covers pose a risk of trapping and drowning a swimmer. This has been a repeat problem for the industry.
“If there’s been problems twice, they should know what some of their problems are and take care of them,” said Solon resident Ruth Bezzi.
According to safety commission, between 1999 and 2010, 97 suction entrapment cases were reported nationwide, 12 of them resulting in death.
Parker said the Solon Recreation Department considers itself safe, always preparing for the worst.
“It can be definitely frustrating from an operating standpoint,” he said. “You know a year or so later, all of a sudden a recall is happening. In the name of safety, facilities are willing to do what they need to do to become compliant.”
The safety hazard may shut down many pools nationwide, but patron Claire Wieczorek said it’s never crossed her mind.
“People sucked into the drains? No, I’ve never felt worried at the pool,” she said.