Francesca Biagioli The CPSC has recalled over 5 million above-ground pools due to drowning risks. Affected models include Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup units with dangerous strap designs.
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On July 21, 2025, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a sweeping recall affecting more than 5 million above-ground swimming pools sold in the United States and Canada. The products in question come from three major manufacturers—Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup—and include all models standing at least 48 inches tall (about 1.22 meters). These pools have been on the market since 2002, and the recall applies to units sold up through 2025.
The reason behind the alert is grim: nine drowning incidents involving young children, all traced back to a design flaw in the pool structure. The victims, aged between 22 months and 3 years, managed to climb unsupervised into the pools—an accident that could have been prevented.
The danger hidden in plain sight
At the heart of the problem are the external compression straps, a component designed to stabilize the pool. These straps run along the outside of the vertical support legs. While functional, they present an unintended hazard: they can act as stepping points for small children.
And that’s precisely what happened. According to the CPSC, between 2007 and 2022, nine toddlers in the U.S. tragically lost their lives after climbing these straps and falling into the water when no adult was watching.
No deaths have been reported in Canada, but authorities there have still acted quickly. Approximately 266,000 units sold in the country have been recalled as a precautionary measure.
The updated safety kit, which pool owners can request, replaces the compression straps with safer, rope-based alternatives. Pools equipped with the replacement kit present a smooth exterior, making it significantly harder for children to climb in.
Which models are affected
Here’s a breakdown of the recalled products, by brand and sale period:
Bestway and Coleman pools (2008–2024)
- Bestway Power Steel
- Bestway Steel Pro
- Coleman Power Steel
Intex pools (2002–2012)
- Metal Frame Pools
- Ultra Frame Pools
Intex pools sold exclusively at Intexcorp.com and Walmart (2024–2025)
- Prism Frame Pool
- Ultra XTR Frame Pool
Polygroup pools (2006–2025)
- Summer Waves (2015–2025)
- Summer Escapes (2006–2015)
- Funsicle (2023–2025)
- Sand n Sun (2008–2011)
- Blue Wave (2014–2025)
What to do if you own one of these pools
While no formal recall has yet been issued in Europe, it’s smart to stay ahead of the curve and follow the guidance provided by North American regulators—especially if you own a similar model, whether purchased locally or imported.
The first rule remains the most obvious: always supervise children near pools. Regardless of size, model, or brand, that’s a golden rule that too often goes ignored.
If you suspect your pool might be among the affected models, reach out to the manufacturer’s customer service to verify your unit and request the free retrofit kit, if available. It’s designed specifically to eliminate the climbing hazard by replacing the external straps with non-rigid cords.
In the meantime, experts suggest temporary safety measures: either drain the pool when not in use or physically block access to it for toddlers. It’s a small inconvenience that could save a life.
