Electrocutions in swimming pools happen more often than you would think. Electrical hazards can be deadly, and homeowners need to take steps to make sure their pools are safe.
Summer weather is here and that means many people will be spending time in the pool. Whether you splash around or just lounge in the cool water, the pool is often your best friend when the temperature spikes during New York summers.
Pools can be a great source of fun, relaxation and even exercise. However, before you jump into the pool, you should be aware of a lesser-known pool hazard.
Drowning is a top concern for many parents, but electrocution is another safety issue many people should be of aware before swimming this summer.
Electrical hazards can be in and around swimming pools and cause serious and fatal injuries. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that several different types of electrical hazards can cause injuries and fatalities, including old electrical wiring, faulty underwater lighting, sump pumps or other appliances that aren’t grounded, and having electrical devices near the water.
When electrical malfunctions occur, anyone swimming in the pool is at risk for being electrocuted. Electrical hazards can cause electrocution in a pool, which often leads to drowning because the victim cannot move or even call for help. In addition to anyone in the pool being electrocuted, people trying to rescue them out of the pool are at risk for being electrocuted if they step into the water or touch a ladder.
Safety tips for preventing electrocution in pools
What can pool owners do to prevent electrical hazards? The CPSC says that homeowners should inspect underwater lights and electrical wiring near the pool and upgrade or fix any safety issues. They recommend using Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters, which can protect against electrocution. They also recommend having an electrician inspect their pool to make sure all potential safety hazards are fixed before letting anyone swim.
Despite safety tips and homeowner liability laws, electrocutions and other pool accidents will still happen this summer. What can victims do?
Legal options for victims injured by electrical hazards
Homeowners in New York are responsible for any accidents or injuries that happen on their property. This includes any injuries caused by pool electrical hazards. Victims who have been injured in someone else’s pool can file a
premises liability lawsuit against the owner.
Owners need to make sure their pools are safe and free of any hazards that may cause an injury or death. When an injury does happen due to the owner’s negligence of electrical safety hazards in their pool, victims can pursue legal action to receive compensation for their injuries.
Premises liability claims can be complex, especially when you suspect that faulty pool lights or other electrical hazards were the cause of your injuries. Victims should contact a personal injury attorney to investigate the accident and identify what legal options are available according to New York law.