The truth is, even pools with dual main drains may not be safe. To be effective in preventing entrapment, the drains must be properly spaced and hydraulically balanced. Drains can become unbalanced due to incorrect installation, sand or debris blockage, or unmatched drain covers.
What can you do about it?
1) Ask your pool builder for a copy of your pool’s blueprint.
Make sure your dual drains are connected in parallel.
2) Measure the distance between your drains.
They need to be between 3-6 feet apart.
3) Install ANSI/ASME Compliant Covers.
These covers must be installed by July 1, 2008.
4) Have your vacuum levels tested.
Even with dual drains, if your vacuum levels are too high, it is still an entrapment risk.
5) Consider a Safety Vacuum Release System or other back-up safety device.
No product will make a pool 100% safe. The key is to add layers of protection to reduce risk.
If your vacuum levels are found to be high, close the pool immediately. Seek a professional’
Brian Foster is a Water Safety Consultant working in the Twin Cities Metro, and an advisor on the new Abigail Taylor Pool Safety Act, and the Federal ‘Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act.’ Brian can be contacted at brian@mnpoolsafety.org, or (763) 438-4890.
