Swimming Pool Chemical Use & Storage Safety
 
We all want to swim in a clean, well-kept pool.  The process and use of chemicals involved in keeping your swimming pool spotless is not without safety hazards in used or stored improperly. In addition to following specific manufacturer guidelines, remember these pool chemical safety rules whenever handling or storing swimming pool chemicals:

- As with all chemicals, keep pool chemicals well out of the reach of children and pets.  Storing pool chemicals high and locked safely away in a storage cabinet will be your best guarantee against accidental poisoning.  If chemicals are swallowed, call Poison Control immediately and follow any directions you are given or are found on the pool chemical label.  Post Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and emergency information and emergency phone numbers nearby.

- When you have found a high place to store your pool chemicals, make sure it is dry and well-ventilated.

- Make sure that the storage area you have chosen for your pool chemicals is free of flammable items.

- Make sure all lids are closed tightly when in storage, and that all lids and labels belong with the correct pool chemical.  Read all labels carefully.  Never re-use old pool chemical containers.

- Avoid stacking pool chemicals on top of each other.

- Never add pool chemicals to your swimming pool while people are swimming.

- Always handle all pool chemicals carefully, paying careful attention to what you are doing at all times.

- Avoid explosions, fire or dangerous fumes - never mix pool chemicals together, and never smoke near pool chemicals or use pool chemicals near an open flame.

- Avoid inhaling dust or fumes created by pool chemicals.

- Keep pool chemicals away from your face to avoid getting into your eyes, nose or mouth. 

- Wear safety equipment when handling pool chemicals. Such safety equipment may include a breathing respirator face shield, gloves, goggles and apron.

- Replace the chemical agents used in test kits each year.

- Never add water to your pool chemicals.  Instead, add pool chemicals to your water.

- The more people who use your swimming pool, the more frequently you should test the water with a reliable test kit.

- Clean us any pool chemical spills immediately and dispose of the chemicals properly.  If a violent reaction has occurred as a result of the spill or mixing of chemicals, call your fire department for instructions on what to do while you await their arrival.

- Always be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling pool chemicals.