The Hidden Dangers in Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs

Pools, spas, and hot tubs are supposed to be places of fun, relaxation, and connection. But when something goes wrong, such as a faulty electrical component, a dangerous drain design, or a malfunctioning safety feature, the consequences can be catastrophic. Drownings, electric shocks, and severe injuries aren’t just accidents in these cases; they may be the result of defective products or negligent manufacturing.

At Morgan & Morgan, we believe that when someone is harmed by a dangerous pool or spa product, the manufacturers, installers, or distributors responsible should be held accountable. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a pool, spa, or hot tub, we’re here to help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

When Relaxation Turns Risky: Common Hazards in Pools & Spas

Most people don’t think twice before hopping into a hot tub or taking a dip in the pool. But defective or unsafe equipment can turn an everyday moment into a life-altering tragedy. Some of the most common and deadly hazards include:

Drowning and Near-Drowning

Defective safety features, broken gates or alarms, and malfunctioning flotation or drain systems can all contribute to unintentional drowning, especially among children. These incidents are often preventable and stem from product failures or a lack of proper warnings. Survivors of near-drowning events may suffer long-term brain damage due to oxygen deprivation.

Overheating and Scalding

Hot tubs and spas are designed to relax, not burn. When thermostats malfunction or heating systems fail to regulate water temperature, users can suffer first- or second-degree burns. Children and older adults are especially vulnerable to these injuries.

Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Defective pool decks, broken tiles, or slick surfaces caused by poor drainage or improper coatings can lead to serious slip-and-fall accidents. These incidents often result in broken bones, concussions, or back injuries, particularly in unsupervised areas.

Electrical Hazards

Pools and spas require a complex network of wiring, pumps, lights, and heaters. When electrical components are improperly installed, poorly insulated, or fail due to manufacturing defects, swimmers can suffer serious or fatal electric shocks, especially in chlorinated water, which conducts electricity.

These incidents can occur with:

• Underwater pool lights
• Faulty grounding or bonding systems
• Broken GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupters)
• Defective heating elements or pumps

Even a low-voltage current in water can cause paralysis or cardiac arrest. Known as electric shock drowning (ESD), this terrifying phenomenon is often invisible until it’s too late.

Drain Entrapment

Another lesser-known but incredibly dangerous hazard is drain entrapment. This happens when powerful suction from a pool or spa drain pulls a swimmer, often a child, underwater. The force of the drain can trap hair, limbs, clothing, or even the body itself.

In some cases, victims suffer internal injuries, spinal damage, or drown, while others are unable to rescue them in time. These injuries are entirely preventable, and often caused by:

• Unsecured or poorly designed drain covers
• Outdated equipment not compliant with federal safety standards
• The manufacturer's failure to warn about the risks
• Installation errors or product defects

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was passed to help prevent these types of incidents, but not all equipment meets modern safety regulations.

Who’s Responsible When a Pool Product Fails?

When a product defect leads to injury or death, several parties may be legally liable:

• Manufacturers of faulty components (e.g., pumps, heaters, drain covers, lighting)
• Retailers or distributors who sold defective or mislabeled equipment
• Contractors or installers who failed to install components safely or correctly
• Property owners or facility operators who ignored safety warnings or failed to maintain equipment

Product liability laws exist to protect consumers from harm. If a product was defective in design, manufacturing, or lacked proper warnings, you may have grounds to file a product liability lawsuit.

What Makes a Pool or Spa Product “Defective”?

There are generally three types of product defects that can lead to legal action:

• Design Defects: The product was dangerous from the start, even when made correctly (e.g., a drain design that allows entrapment).
• Manufacturing Defects: Something went wrong during production (e.g., a pool heater with faulty wiring).
• Failure to Warn: The product didn’t include adequate instructions or safety warnings (e.g., no GFCI warning for electrical components).

When these defects cause harm, the victims, not the manufacturers, deserve justice.

Real-World Consequences

Injuries tied to defective pools, spas, and hot tubs are often severe and life-altering:

• Traumatic brain injuries from near-drowning
• Burns or electrocution from electrical failure
• Spinal injuries from drain entrapment
• Internal organ damage
• Wrongful death, particularly in young children

Beyond the physical damage, these incidents take an enormous emotional and financial toll. Medical bills, lost income, long-term care, and pain and suffering can leave families overwhelmed and looking for answers.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a pool, spa, or hot tub incident, here’s what to do:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor at first.
• Document the scene: take photos of the product, surroundings, and any warning labels or lack thereof.
• Preserve the defective equipment if possible: it may be crucial evidence.
• Report the incident to the pool operator, manager, or property owner.
• Speak to an experienced product liability attorney before dealing with insurance companies.

You don’t have to handle this alone, especially when a corporation or manufacturer may be responsible for your suffering.

Morgan & Morgan Is Here to Help

At Morgan & Morgan, we’ve spent decades challenging product manufacturers who prioritize profits over safety. Our team has the resources to take on powerful companies and the experience to build a strong case on your behalf.

If you or your child was injured in a pool, spa, or hot tub due to a defective product or equipment failure, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and more.

We don’t get paid unless we win. Contact us today for a free case evaluation, and let’s hold the responsible parties accountable together.