Caution Urged Around Pool Chemicals
A recent silive article brought to light the dangers involved in storing and using swimming pool chemicals. A Staten Island resident, Salvatore Mannino, recently filed a lawsuit claiming that he suffered severe burns to his body when a product known as pool shock "exploded" as he was adding it to the pool. Pool chemicals are potentially dangerous and should handled with care.
The majority of pool chemicals contain chlorine, which is used for its ability to clear algae and bacteria from the water. While chlorine in its dry state will not explode, accidents happen when people mix together different products containing two different chemicals that are not compatible. When certain of these chemicals combine with water, an explosion results, which may be powerful enough to cause you severe injuries, including burns, both internal and external, blindness and even fractures. Even putting a pool chemical in a supposedly empty bucket containing another chemical may be enough to cause a dangerous reaction.
When working around the pool, always remember to wear eye protection and gloves. Always add the chemicals to the pool water and not the pool water to the chemical. Adding a small amount water to such a high concentration of chemicals can cause potentially deadly gasses to form and an explosion may result. Read the label carefully and follow all directions when using pool chemicals. Chlorine is corrosive, poisonous and flammable, and can create potentially deadly fumes that have the potential to explode. Never mix chemicals indoors so as to avoid the possibility that any gases produced will concentrate and increase the possibility of an explosion. Also, the gases have the potential to render you unconscious, with possible fatal side effects. Do not mix old chemical with new chemicals, even if they are the same brand. Store all chemicals away from gasoline, paint remover and any other flammable liquids.
Following these basic safety precautions will help to insure that your swimming pool maintenance will be much easier and safer. Please take your time when maintaining your pool - you may prevent injury to yourself and to your family.
