Safety main drain(s) is one of the most important pieces you will install on your swimming pool. Ask your pool professional to explain how they intend to keep swimmers safe in your pool. Insist on reading the cut sheets and also talk to the experts. I have included a main drain product that Elite Pools believes to be the safest on the market.

AVSC Drain

Features/Benefits

• Engineered to meet the Unblockable category (Safest design on the marketplace) as allowed in ANSI/APSP 7 Standard.
  • Get peace of mind with our maximum safety drain that also cleans your pool.  This allows you to install one drain instead of two as allowed for in the regular standards.
• Available in two models, Single & Dual inlet models with flow rates up to 227 GPM.
  • The AVSC Drain allows you to plumb not only one pump, but two pumps if needed to one drain.  Think of the Savings!
• Designed with a flush large opening for debris removal.
  • Most other VGB certified drains are for circulation only.  Unlike how the AVSC Drain is “flush” with the finish of the pool, all other debris removal drains extend significantly above the finish.  The large opening in the AVSC Drain does allow for even the largest of debris to pass into the drain.
• Engineered with Dual Levels of Protection
  • Unlike other certified drains, the AVSC Drain is designed with its Safety Baffle.  This is a second level of protection keeps the swimmer from being able to come into contact with the suction inlet in the event the cover is broken or missing (the cause of most entrapment cases).  Safety is our primary concern!
• NSF International certified to meet the VGB Pool & Spa Safety Act ASME/ANSI 112.19.8a 2008.

Six steps that are vital for pool safety:

* Don’t swim alone. It’s important to have someone there to help if pool users fall, slip, or have a heart attack.
* Take a cell phone or cordless phone to the pool, and keep it close by.
* If at all possible, be sure that someone trained in lifesaving and CPR is nearby.
* Make it clear to parents that they are responsible for watching their own children.
* Install an alarm in the house that sounds an alert when anyone goes near the pool.
* Before leaving and locking the gate, double-check the pool area. There may be children you didn’t see at first glance, who must not be left alone near the pool.

Swimming pool permits regualtions can vary from state to state, county to county and even city to city. Fortunately, there are some general guidelines when considering a swimming pool project. Here are some questions you will have to ask yourself or your pool prefessional:

Public or Private utilities, well location? Septic location?

Property lines- easements? Building restriction Lines?

Utilities- Overhead electric lines? Gas Main? Sewer main? Where are the lines for my cable, telephone, electric, gas, satelite, etc?

You need to know your Setbacks to all of the above. Each jurisdiction is different and you must be aware of what departments must sign off prior to issuing the permit. Also, most jurisdictions require a fence around the pool. Look for the next blog to talk about fence requirements.

Please post any permit questions you may have and I will help you navigate through the requirements.