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Summer is finally here in the Twin Cities, and that means pool season is, too — but do you know how safe your pool currently is? It’s a tragic reality, but every year, both children and adults are injured or killed by swimming pool electrical shocks, which are largely preventable.

At Harrison Electric, we know how critical proper pool electrical work is for you and your loved ones’ safety. Unfortunately, though, it can often be difficult to determine whether your pool’s electrical system is putting you at risk. Not sure if your pool is safe to swim in yet? Below, we’ve got a brief overview to help you make the call.

Pool Electrical Accidents: What Are the Most Common Causes?

How do people get injured by electrical shocks in their pools? The following pool hazards are most commonly to blame:

●        Improper installation of electrical equipment. Poorly installed electrical wiring can generate stray currents that may affect numerous pool components. If left unrepaired, those currents can travel into the pool water, which, as you know, is a strong electrical conductor.

●        Faulty pool lighting. When pools contain lighting that is not grounded or bonded, those lights can transfer electricity into the pool water, causing shocks. Even when the pool lights are off, shocks may still occur if the lights are ungrounded due to the fact that these electrical components are completely submerged underwater.

●        Misplaced electronics. Any plugged-in appliance near a pool presents a potentially deadly hazard for swimmers, especially high-amperage devices. Pool owners who lack GFCI outlets around their pools are at high-risk for electrical injuries.

How to Minimize Your Risk of Electrical Accidents

So how can you prevent electrical shock in your pool? For starters, when you open your pool for the season, you should have a licensed electrician inspect the pool wiring for signs of damage or faulty installation. If the electrician locates any components that may present a hazard, you should have them replaced before swimming in the pool. Other ways to reduce your risk of pool electrical injuries include:

●        GFCI outlets outdoors. If your home does not currently feature outdoor GFCI outlets or outlet covers, it is in violation of current electrical code. You can have an electrician install outlet replacements to protect swimmers against electrical shock in the event electronic devices fall into your pool.

●        Clear the pool deck of electronics. The absolute best way to prevent device-related shock is to keep all electrical devices away from the water. For safety’s sake, make sure all electronics and cords are at least 10 feet from the edge of your pool at all times.

At Harrison Electric, we’ve been serving Twin Cities homeowners with high-quality electrical installation, component replacement, repair, and maintenance, since 1985. If you’re worried your pool may contain electrical hazards, it’s time to get in touch with our team. To request service or get a repair quote, give us a call at 763-544-3300 or send us a message on our contact page, and a member of our team will be in touch with you promptly.