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Pool Safety

Liquid and solid chlorine-based oxidizers are commonly sold for home pool care as hydrogen chlorine products. These chemicals can combust spontaneously if contaminated by organic materials or hydrocarbons. This type of fire will result in toxic fumes that can be extremely dangerous. Store and use pool chemicals according to manufacturer's recommendations. Never store them inside the home or near heat or flame sources. If a container is punctured or otherwise damaged, dispose of the chemicals properly and replace them.

Transporting Chemicals:

  • Keep your vehicle clean and organized.
  • Separate incompatible chemicals, distribute between front seat, back seat and / or trunk.
  • Don't purchase or carry damaged containers.
  • Anchor your load securely, so that it won't move around.
  • Ask your pool supply dealer for MSDS sheets, for your information and HAZMAT personnel in case of an accident.

Storing Pool Chemicals:

  • Store chemicals in a cool, dry, well ventilated area, with a locked entry. Do not set outside in the sun.
  • Keep out of reach of children (duh!).
  • Keep pool and spa chemicals separate from each other, and from other chemicals. Violent reactions such as explosion, fire or noxious gas production can occur when incompatible chemicals contact each other. Never, ever mix any chemicals together.
  • Do not stack chemical containers on top of one another.
  • Replace lids and caps firmly and immediately after opening.
  • Post MSDS sheets and emergency information and phone numbers nearby.

Using Pool Chemicals:

  • Follow label directions carefully. Read the instructions! If the label is faded or torn, don't guess what it is. Return it to your dealer.
  • Add chemicals to pool water, not the other way around. Chemicals should be added directly to the pool, or through a feeder especially designed for that type of chemical. Chemicals added directly to the skimmer could allow strong concentrations to harm pool equipment or swimmers. If the instructions suggest diluting with water first, use a clean, oversized bucket with water in it, then add chemicals to the water in the bucket. Read the Instructions!
  • Wear safety gear when handling chemicals. This may include a breathing respirator to prevent inhalation of fumes, face shield, gloves and apron.
  • Do Not mix chemicals...EVER! This includes direct mixing of full strength chemicals in a bucket, diluted concentrations and even adding chemicals to the same location in the pool. At the very least you may get a water quality problem, or you may endanger your life or the life of others. Chemicals can mix with each other by using containers or scoops which were previously used for other chemicals. Always use a clean bucket and scoop, designated only for that chemical.
  • Dispose of wastes and spills safely and properly. Immediately clean up any chemical spills. If a violent reaction has occurred, contact the fire department immediately and they will instruct you on steps to take until their arrival, if any. If the spilled chemical is a solid, carefully sweep it up using a clean broom and shovel, and place it in a clean, dry, plastic container. Avoid breathing the dust. If possible, dilute the chemical in water and add it to the pool or spa. Then test and balance the water. If this is not possible, contact the fire department for instructions on disposal. Do not place floor sweepings of chemicals back into the original container. Any foreign substance such as dust, dirt, water can cause a reaction inside the container. Do not use a vacuum cleaner or shop vac to clean up spilled substances. If the spilled substance is a liquid, it should be soaked up with clean, absorbent materials and placed inside a clean plastic or plastic lined container. Flush the area with large amounts of water.
  • Never smoke around any chemicals. Fire or explosion could result.
  • Do not breathe chemical fumes or dust. Wash skin if contact occurs. If chemicals splash in eyes, flush eyes for 15 minutes, and see a physician immediately.
  • Use ONLY a water filled fire extinguisher on a chlorine chemical fire. Never use the dry chemical type of extinguisher.
  • Keep posted emergency numbers for the fire department, poison control center, and MSDS sheets of all chemicals on hand.