Blue Wave Above-Ground Pool Recall Highlights Ongoing Drowning Risks
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently announced the recall of Blue Wave above-ground swimming pools. This recall is drawing renewed attention to the dangers of above-ground swimming pools, especially for children. Above-ground pools remain popular among Florida residents. However, when these pools are defectively signed or improperly labeled, it can lead to tragic consequences.
Background of the recall
According to the CPSC, Blue Wave recalled all swimming pools measuring 48 inches or taller because of a potential drowning hazard. In this case, the problem is with the pool’s compression strap system. It can act as a foothold. This makes it easier for a small child to climb into the pool even after the ladder has been removed.
For years, the CPSC has been raising the alarm on above-ground pools with external straps or other objects that make climbing possible. Pools with external straps can significantly increase the risk of a child getting into the pool unsupervised. Consumers are being advised to stop using the pool until a repair kit is installed.
Similar recalls show a troubling pattern
This recall is not an isolated event. Over the years, millions of above-ground swimming pools have been recalled for similar risks. In some cases, it took a child drowning to initiate the recall. Despite these warnings and prior recalls, pool manufacturers still place climb-assisting components on their pools.
These failures are leading to questions about whether pool manufacturers are testing pool designs and responding in a meaningful way to known safety risks. When the same pattern occurs several times a year, it suggests a major failure of pool companies to prioritize customer safety.
Potential product liability lawsuits
If a defective or recalled swimming pool causes a serious injury or death, the family has grounds to pursue a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer of that pool. Such a case would focus on design defects. The plaintiff would argue that the pool was designed with a dangerous component that rendered it unfit and unsafe for children.
In Florida, you can pursue a product liability claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other damages. In addition to the manufacturer, the distributor and retailer might also be responsible for damages.
It’s important to understand that just because the company issued a recall, that doesn’t mean they’re off the hook for injuries or deaths caused by their product. In fact, the recall often supports the plaintiff’s arguments, giving them ammunition while their case is being tried.
Why this matters for Florida families
Above-ground swimming pools are generally safe. However, when the manufacturer adds a feature that makes it easy to enter the pool without a ladder, it can become quite dangerous. This is important because above-ground pools are common in Florida neighborhoods. This recall will affect Florida families. It serves as a reminder that consumer safety cannot be an afterthought in the design process.
Talk to a Florida Product Liability Lawyer Today
Halpern, Santos & Pinkert represent the interests of Florida residents who have been injured by dangerous or defective products. Call our Florida personal injury lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin investigating your case right away.
