5 million above-ground pools recalled due to climbing hazard linked to drownings

5 million above-ground pools recalled due to climbing hazard linked to drownings

Certain above-ground pools from Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup are being recalled due to a safety issue linked to multiple child drownings. Here’s what families should check—and how to get a free fix.

If you have an above-ground pool in your backyard—especially from brands like Bestway, Intex, or Polygroup—it’s time to take a closer look. A major recall has been issued after nine children tragically drowned in incidents linked to a specific structural feature on certain pool models.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), nearly 5 million above-ground pools are being recalled due to a serious safety hazard involving external compression straps. These straps, designed to reinforce the pool’s support legs, can double as footholds. This makes it possible for toddlers and young children to climb into the pool, even if the ladder has been removed.

For families with curious toddlers or preschoolers, this design flaw poses an urgent risk.

Related: Popular nursery chair recalled for overheating hazard—here’s what parents need to know

Why this matters to families

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), nine children between the ages of 22 months and 3 years have drowned after climbing into these pools using the exterior straps. The incidents happened between 2007 and 2022 across six states: California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri.

While other non-fatal cases have also been reported, some dating back more than a decade, the pattern is now too clear to ignore.

How to know if your pool is affected

The recall includes 48-inch and taller above-ground pools with compression straps, sold under the following brand names:

• Bestway and Coleman (2008–2024)

• Intex (2002–2012, and select online models from 2024–2025)

• Polygroup (2006–2025)

• Funsicle (2023–2025)

These pools were sold at major retailers including Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Costco, Amazon, and others. Prices ranged from $400 to over $1,000.

To check your model, look at the liner on the outside of the pool for the brand and model information.

Related: Peg Perego recalls 3-in-1 baby chair over suffocation risk—here’s what to do

What parents should do now If you own one of the recalled pools:

1. Stop using the pool  immediately.

2. Order a free repair kit from the manufacturer using the contact info below.

3. Once you receive the kit, install the new ground-level rope system and cut and remove the external compression strap.

Extra safety step: Until the repair is completed, make sure kids can’t access the pool unsupervised—or consider draining it temporarily

How to request your free repair kit

A quick reminder about pool safety

No matter what kind of pool you have, the CPSC urges families to use layers of protection to help prevent drownings. This includes:

1. Constant adult supervision – Always watch children closely when they are in or near any water. Assign a Water Watcher who stays focused and avoids distractions like phones or books.

2. Secure fencing and barriers – Install a four-sided fence around the pool with self-closing, self-latching gates. This helps prevent children from entering the water area unsupervised.

3. Pool covers – Use a safety pool or spa cover when not in use, and make sure it’s secure and in good condition. Always remove it fully before swimming to avoid entrapment.

4. Door and gate alarms – Install alarms on doors, windows, and gates that lead to the pool area. They alert adults if a child tries to enter the area alone.

Free safety resources are available at PoolSafely.gov.

The bottom line

If your family owns one of these models, taking action now could prevent a tragedy. Even if your pool isn’t included in this recall, now is the time to review your safety setup and make sure it’s working as intended. Because peace of mind, especially in summer, is everything.

More noteworthy reads on pool safety:

1. Pediatrician shares water safety tips for parents amid new CDC data on drowning

2. 5 water safety tips to share with all your kids’ caregivers this summer

3. A drowning investigator’s plea to parents about water safety goes viral

4. What every family with a kiddie pool needs to know about water safety this summer

Sources:

1. Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup Recall Certain Above-Ground Pools. July 21, 2025. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup Recall Certain Above-Ground Pools 48-Inches and Taller Due to Drowning Hazard; Nine Deaths Reported; Five Million Pools Sold Since 2002.