Hurricane Preparation

Should I drain my pool?

  • NEVER EMPTY YOUR POOL!
  • Keeping sufficient water levels in your pool provides the important weight to hold the sides and bottom in place, especially when heavy rains that accompany most storms raise the local water table. Pools which have been emptied may experience serious subsidence problems and could be lifted off their foundation.

Should I lower the water level in my pool?

  • If your pool is properly equipped with adequate drains and skimmers and the surrounding area is properly drained, the water level can be left as it is.

  • In cases when surrounding structures might be damaged by the water before it can run off naturally, the experts recommend lowering the pool’s water level by 1 to 2 feet.

Should I do anything to the pool water chemistry?

  • We recommend you super chlorinate the pool water. You should “shock” your pool in your normal manner.

Should I leave my automatic equipment and electrical systems turned on?

  • It is important that all electrical power be turned off at the circuit breakers before the storm hits. Any exposed electrical equipment such as motors for the pumps should be tightly covered with plastic wrap. If flooding is expected, they may be disconnected and removed.

Should I throw my pool furniture into the pool?

  • Never throw or drop anything into a pool that could damage the pool walls or bottom (especially vinyl liners and fiberglass). It is best to remove any and all loose objects such as chairs, tables, pool equipment and even toys which can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. If you cannot store them inside a building, carefully and gently place them in the pool to shield them from the winds. Be very careful and remember pool chemicals may damage the furniture. There is also a possibility that any rusting metal may cause stains to form in your pool. This is not a recommended practice.

Should I take any special precautions with my decking and screens?

  • Some damage to the frame of your enclosed screen structure may be avoided if you provide a “vent” for wind to escape through. Panels in screens may be removed on either side of the pool area. Doors, which are especially vulnerable, might be removed completely.

Should commercial pool facilities take any additional precautions?

  • Commercial pool specialists remind owners/operators of the following:
    • Stored chemicals should be removed to a safe, high, and dry location. Remember that some chemicals, when mixed, can produce dangerous gases and others can cause fires.
    • Sump pits should be cleaned and sump pumps should be checked. A portable gasoline-operated pump is helpful if power is not restored quickly.
    • Pools near apartment units/motel rooms should have water levels lowered by 1 to 2 feet if potential flooding is a factor.
    • Remove all loose items around the pool area including trash cans, ashtrays, nets, etc.
    • Equipment covers should be secured by being lashed or bolted down.