Portable Pools Video by CIRP

Portable pools, which include wading pools, inflatable pools and soft-sided, self-rising pools, are low cost alternatives to expensive in-ground pools or water park visits. While these pools can be a great way for children to cool off during hot summer days, researchers warn that these pools may be more dangerous than many parents realize. "Because portable pools are generally small, inexpensive and easy to use, parents often do not think about the potential dangers these pools present," said Dr. Gary A. Smith, senior author of the study.

The majority of cases in the study involved children younger than 5 years of age (94 percent) and involved portable pools in the child's own yard (73 percent). While adult supervision is important, it is not enough, say researchers. In 18 percent of cases with adult supervision, a brief lapse in supervision, such as socializing with neighbors, answering the telephone or doing chores, was enough to cause a submersion event. "It only takes a couple of minutes and a few inches of water for a child to drown. It is important for parents to realize that portable pools can be just as dangerous as in-ground pools," advises Dr. Smith, director and principal investigator of the Center for Injury Research and Policy.

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