PHOENIX — Following the tragic deaths of nine young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a nationwide recall of approximately 5 million above-ground swimming pools, including models produced by companies in Arizona and abroad.
The recall affects a wide range of pool models that use vertical compression straps for structural support — a feature that investigators say created an unintended foothold, allowing toddlers to climb in unsupervised. All nine deaths, which occurred between 2007 and 2022, involved children ages 22 months to 3 years old. None of the fatal incidents occurred in Arizona, but officials are urging all pool owners to check their products.
Some of the recalled pools were manufactured by Bestway, which has a facility in Chandler, as well as China-based Bestway International, Intex Recreation Corp., and Polygroup North America.
“These straps create a step that can be easily scaled by small children,” the CPSC said in a statement. “This hazard poses a serious drowning risk if the pool is left unattended or lacks proper barriers.”
Which pools are affected?
The recall applies specifically to above-ground pools 48 inches and taller, particularly the following models:
Bestway and Coleman pools sold between 2008 and 2024:
Power Steel
Steel Pro
Coleman Power Steel
Intex models:
Metal Frame and Ultra Frame Pools (sold 2002–2012)
Prism Frame and Ultra XTR Frame Pools (sold 2024–2025 on Intexcorp.com and Walmart)
Polygroup models:
Summer Waves (2015–2025)
Summer Escapes (2006–2015)
Funsicle (2023–2025)
Sand n Sun (2008–2011)
Blue Wave (2014–2025)
The affected pools were sold at major retailers including Walmart, Home Depot, Costco, Target, Sears, Lowe’s, and Sam’s Club. They were also sold online through Amazon, Wayfair, and manufacturer websites.
What to do if you own one
CPSC officials are advising pool owners to immediately restrict access to the pool until a repair solution is installed. Consumers can request a free repair kit directly from the manufacturer — Bestway, Intex, or Polygroup — to mitigate the safety risk.
While many families purchase these pools for affordable summer recreation, safety experts stress that even small pools can pose life-threatening dangers to children if proper safeguards are not in place.
“We encourage all pool owners to take this recall seriously,” a CPSC spokesperson said. “Even one avoidable drowning is too many.”
More information and detailed visuals of the recalled pool models can be found on the CPSC website.
