WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in collaboration with Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup, has announced the recall of approximately five million above-ground pools 48 inches and taller due to a serious drowning hazard. The recall, issued July 21, 2025, comes after reports of nine child fatalities and several close calls.

The affected pools, manufactured in China and sold across the U.S. and Canada since 2002, feature external compression straps designed to support the pool structure. However, CPSC says the straps can act as footholds, allowing young children to climb into the pool—even if a ladder has been removed. The deaths involved children ranging in age from 22 months to three years old, with incidents reported in California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri between 2007 and 2022.

The recall affects various brands and models, including:

• Bestway and Coleman Power Steel and Steel Pro Ultra Frame Pools (sold 2008–2024)

• Intex Ultra XTR and Prism Frame Pools (sold 2002–2012 and 2024–2025 via Intexcorp.com and Walmart)

• Polygroup Summer Waves and Summer Escapes (sold 2006–2025)

• Funsicle and Blue Wave models sold as recently as 2025

Consumers are urged to immediately contact the manufacturers for a free repair kit. The kit includes a rope system that maintains the pool’s structural integrity while eliminating the dangerous compression strap. Users should install the repair, then remove the original strap. Until the fix is complete, CPSC advises ensuring children cannot access the pool or draining it entirely.

The pools were sold at major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, Costco, and online platforms including Amazon and Wayfair. Prices ranged from about $400 to over $1,000 depending on model and accessories.

Consumers can request repair kits and find more information through the following:

• Bestway: 844-593-4003 or BWrecallsupport.expertinquiry.com

• Intex: 800-549-8829 or www.Intexcorp.com/recall

• Polygroup: 888-621-4137 or polygrouprecall.com

For pool safety resources, visit www.PoolSafely.gov.