Don't "swim with the shocks"

Monday's Memorial Day holiday was for many the unofficial start of summer. That means vacations, travel and swimming.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Red Cross recently reminded the public in a news release of the potential dangers of shock from swimming pools, spas and hot tubs. And the Consumer Product Safety Commission provided these safety tips for preventing electrocutions in and around the pool:

• Know where all the electrical switches and circuit breakers for pool equipment and lights are located and how to turn them off in an emergency;
• Don't swim before, during or after thunderstorms;
• Have an electrician who is qualified in pool and spa repairs inspect and upgrade pools, spas or hot tubs in accordance with applicable local codes and the National Electrical Code;
• Ensure that all electrical wires and junction boxes are at least 5 feet away from water as required by the NEC;
• Protect swimmers from injury by following the NEC requirements for installing Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters (GFCI). On underwater lighting circuits operating at 120 volts, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends GFCIs for circuits that are 15 volts or greater on pumps and electrical equipment used with pools, spas and hot tubs, on heaters close to the pool and operated on 240 volt circuits; on electrical circuits around pools, spas and hot tubs; and on all outdoor receptacles and receptacles within 20 feet of the water's edge;
• Test GFCIs monthly to assure continued protection. Infrequently used and portable or cord-connected GFCIs should be tested before each day's use. To test a GFCI, plug a nightlight into the outlet and turn the nightlight on. Press the "TEST" button. Did the light go out? If not, replace the GFCI or have it inspected by an electrician. Press the reset button. Did the light come back on? If not, replace the GFCI. Wear shoes while conducting the test, especially if outdoors or standing on wet ground;
• Use battery-operated appliances instead of cord-connected appliances in and around a pool, spa or hot tub;
• Post an emergency plan within clear view of those using the pool;
• Ensure that overhead power lines and junction boxes are safely positioned when installing a new pool, hot tub or spa.

To read a news release on the subject, go to http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml03/03125.html online.