Before you consider installing a pool, consider where your electric utility lines are located. Never install your pool under electric lines.  At minimum, stay 25 feet from the water’s edge.

• Pools and decks should be built at least 5 feet away from all underground electrical lines and at least 25 feet away from overhead electrical lines to waters edge.

• Water is a powerful conductor of electricity. It is especially important to be aware of electrical hazards around water. 

• Do not touch electrical equipment when wet.

• Do not place electrical appliances near pools or hot tubs. Use battery-operated appliances, rather than electrical, near swimming pools. 

• Any electrical outlets within 20 feet of a pool or hot tub should be equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GCFI). A GFCI monitors the flow of electricity in a circuit. If there is an irregularity of electrical flow, the power is cut off, preventing an electric shock. GFCIs are recommended anywhere water and electricity may meet.

• Know where electrical switches and circuit breakers are for pool and hot tub equipment, and know how to operate them. Do not operate switches and circuit breakers when wet or if you are standing in water. 

• When cleaning the pool, know where any overhead power lines are to avoid making contact with them while using long-handled tools like a pool skimmer. 

• Make sure all electrical equipment for pools and hot tubs is grounded.

• Have a qualified electrician inspect, repair, and upgrade your swimming pool or hot tub so it is by the National Electric Code. 

• Watch the forecast and make sure you are inside when a thunderstorm approaches. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from the area in which it is raining. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning before returning outdoors.

• If a swimmer is getting shocked, don’t dive in yourself or you could be in trouble as well. Turn off the power at the source, and then use a fiberglass shepherd’s hook to pull the victim out of the water. 

• Pool owners should have an emergency plan posted in plain view in the pool area with instructions on how to assist someone who is suffering an electrical shock.

Contact Citizens Electric before you install your pool to ensure you keep your family safe. Our experts follow the National Electric Safety Code (NESC) for specific requirements needed for installing pools around power lines.