Houston pool experts warn people to ‘be vigilant’ following drowning death of 8-year-old at hotel

As delves deeper into the tragic drowning of an 8-year-old in a hotel pool, attention is turning to pool safety measures and what homeowners can do to enhance security at home.

Local pool experts stress the importance of remaining vigilant, recognizing the myriad potential risks associated with pool ownership.

Sheila Bezdek, owner of Sweetwater Pool company with over 30 years of experience, emphasizes the need for regular seasonal inspections for homeowners with pools. These inspections, conducted by service companies, help ensure that safety equipment and drain covers are up to date and functioning properly.

For public pools and hotels, annual inspections by the Houston Health Department are mandated. Christopher Sparks, overseeing these inspections, ensures compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Act, which requires public pools to have proper drain covers and safety vacuum release systems to prevent entrapment incidents.

Jason Davies, of Pool Envy LLC, underscores the importance of selecting dome-shaped drain covers to prevent hair or debris entanglement. He advises thorough inspections of pool facilities for safety hazards before allowing children to swim, including checking for missing screws or fittings.

Before visiting a public or hotel pool, Sparks recommends checking inspection reports to verify compliance with safety standards and identify any potential violations. This proactive approach helps ensure a safe swimming environment for all patrons.