Millions of families are facing urgent news after the announcement that above ground pools recalled across North America following the deaths of nine young children. As of July 22, 2025, manufacturers and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) are pulling more than 5 million 48-inch and taller above-ground pools from the market over a critical safety flaw.
The Drowning Hazard: Why the Recall Was Issued
The pools affected by the recall include major brands like Bestway, Coleman, Intex, and Polygroup. Sold between 2002 and 2025 at retailers such as Walmart, Target, Home Depot, Costco, Lowe’s, and Amazon, these pools are staples of summer fun for families throughout the United States and Canada.
Safety officials discovered that compression straps running around these pools on the outside—originally intended to improve structural support—act as unintended footholds. This design lets small children climb into the pool, even when the access ladder is removed by parents as a safeguard. Sadly, this allowed nine children, aged 22 months to three years, to enter pools unsupervised and drown between 2007 and 2022. Incidents took place in states including California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri.
Key Points Summary: Read in 60 Seconds
- 5 million above ground pools recalled in U.S. and Canada
- Recall due to compression straps creating child-accessible footholds
- Nine children (ages 22 months to 3 years) drowned, 2007-2022
- Brands affected: Bestway, Coleman, Intex, Polygroup
- Pools sold at major retailers from 2002 to 2025
- Free repair kits available from manufacturers
- Immediate action urged: restrict access or drain pools until repair
“Above Ground Pools Recalled” – What Pool Owners Must Do
Owners of the impacted pools should act without delay. The CPSC urges all pool owners to determine whether their pool is affected by the recall. If so, immediately:
- Prevent unsupervised child access by locking, fencing, or otherwise securing the pool area.
- Contact the manufacturer—Bestway, Coleman, Intex, or Polygroup—for a free repair kit. The new kit replaces the problematic compression strap with a rope, which prevents foothold access but still offers structural integrity.
- Alternatively, drain the pool until safety repairs are completed.
A simple check is to look for a compression strap that wraps around the pool outside and over vertical support legs. Model and brand information is printed on the liner itself. Owners unsure about their specific pool model should refer to the product recall numbers and guidance on the CPSC or Health Canada websites or contact manufacturers directly:
| Brand | Years Sold | How to Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Bestway | 2008–2024 | 844-593-4003 |
| Intex | 2003–2012 | 800-549-8829 |
| Polygroup | 2006–2025 | 888-621-4137 |
Vigilance is crucial even if you have removed the ladder: children may still use the straps to get in.
The Human Impact and Industry Response
This mass recall is one of the most significant pool safety actions in recent memory. The drowning deaths—each involving a toddler—reiterate that parental precautions, like removing ladders, are sometimes no match for design flaws. According to experts, drowning is the leading cause of death for young children ages 1 to 4 in the U.S., with thousands of tragic incidents every year. A quarter of these occur in above-ground pools, emphasizing the urgency of this recall.
Manufacturers have responded swiftly, and authorities recommend that the repair kit be installed as soon as it arrives. Families impacted by these tragedies have expressed their hope that heightened awareness and this recall will save lives moving forward.
Moving Forward: Pool Safety Takes Center Stage
The above ground pools recalled highlight the importance of constant supervision, design safety, and quick response from both consumers and companies. If you own such a pool, check it today—taking quick action can prevent another tragedy.
Were you affected by this recall? Or do you have safety tips and thoughts on the changes needed in home pool safety? Join the discussion below and let’s work together to keep every child safe this summer.