Recall of Over 5.2 Million Aboveground Swimming Pools Sparks Safety Concerns
Introduction
A recent CNN report has revealed that over 5.2 million aboveground swimming pools sold across the US and Canada over the last two decades are being recalled. This comes after nine drowning deaths were reported, sparking concerns about the safety of these popular backyard pools.
Key Details
The recall was issued by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission and involves pools sold by various companies, including Intex, Bestway, and Summer Waves. These pools have been deemed hazardous due to their inadequate safety features, such as the lack of proper fencing or locking mechanisms. The recall also highlights the importance of adult supervision and proper safety precautions when using any type of swimming pool.
Impact
The recall has caused widespread alarm and raises questions about the safety standards of aboveground pools in the market. It also serves as a reminder for pool owners to regularly check and maintain their pool's safety features to prevent any accidents. This recall serves as a wake-up call for pool manufacturers to prioritize safety and ensure that their products meet the necessary standards. The safety and well-being of pool users must be the top priority, and this recall highlights the need for stricter regulations in the pool industry.
About the Organizations Mentioned
CNN
**CNN (Cable News Network)** is a pioneering 24-hour cable news channel founded by media mogul Ted Turner and launched on June 1, 1980. It revolutionized television news by providing continuous, live news coverage worldwide, breaking from the traditional scheduled news broadcasts prevalent at the time[1][3][4][5]. CNN's headquarters are in Atlanta, Georgia, where it remains a major hub for news production. **History and Growth:** CNN was born from Ted Turner’s vision to create the first all-news channel, despite skepticism from industry professionals. Starting with a modest team and resources, it grew rapidly, expanding its reach through cable, satellite, and digital platforms. In 1982, CNN introduced CNN2 (later HLN), the first news channel to use a "wheel" schedule, and in 1985 launched CNN International to serve global audiences[1][4][6]. The network gained significant prominence during events like the 1991 Persian Gulf War, offering real-time battlefield coverage that established CNN as a trusted news source[3][6]. CNN’s website, CNN.com, launched in 1995, was among the first major news websites, marking its early embrace of digital news delivery[6]. **Ownership and Business Evolution:** In 1996, CNN became part of Time Warner (later WarnerMedia), and subsequently Warner Bros. Discovery, reflecting its integration into a major media conglomerate[1][2][6]. The network has adapted to changing media landscapes, including cost-cutting measures announced in 2022 but maintaining a commitment to longform and investigative content[1]. **Key Achievements:** CNN is credited with shaping modern journalism through its live, around-the-clock news coverage and global bureaus. It has earned numerous awards for its reporting and has influenced the creation of similar 24-hour news channels. Its notable anchors and correspondents, such as Bernard Shaw and Christiane Amanpour, have contributed to its authoritative reputation[1]
US Consumer Product Safety Commission
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is an independent federal agency established in 1972 by the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA) to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with consumer products. Created in response to growing concerns over product safety, the CPSC consolidated responsibilities previously scattered across multiple agencies, including the FDA and FTC, into a single, proactive body with broad authority over thousands of products—from toys and electronics to appliances and household goods. The CPSC’s mission is to develop safety standards, ban hazardous products, mandate recalls, and educate consumers. Its creation marked a pivotal shift from fragmented, reactive regulation to centralized, preventative oversight. The agency can set mandatory safety standards, order recalls or repairs, and impose civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance. It also conducts research into product-related injuries and collaborates with industry and international partners to improve safety. Key achievements include the implementation of uniform safety standards, the recall of millions of unsafe products, and the promotion of safer product design. The CPSC’s work has significantly reduced consumer injuries and fatalities, especially among children, and has influenced global product safety practices. Today, the CPSC remains a vital force in the regulatory landscape, adapting to new challenges such as e-commerce and emerging technologies. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, it is led by five commissioners appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The agency’s independence and broad mandate make it a cornerstone of consumer protection in the U.S., ensuring that businesses prioritize safety in an increasingly complex marketplace.
Intex
Intex Technologies is a prominent Indian multinational technology company founded in 1996 by Narendra Bansal and headquartered in New Delhi, India. It specializes in manufacturing a broad range of consumer electronics, including smartphones, LED TVs, washing machines, MP3 players, DVD players, speakers, and IT accessories. The company initially started as an IT product manufacturer but expanded into consumer durables in 2012, rapidly growing its LED TV business by over 150%, capturing a 6% national market share in this segment as well as a 3% share in washing machines[1][2]. With over 1 billion products sold, Intex has established a significant presence across urban and rural India, supported by an extensive distribution network comprising more than 1,000 distributors, 50,000 dealers, over 500 service touchpoints, and 12 warehouses. This robust infrastructure underlines its commitment to delivering affordable and innovative technology solutions nationwide[2]. Intex’s operations are technologically advanced, utilizing SAP-based enterprise resource planning on a Virtual Private Network and proprietary CRM software to automate processes. The company holds an ISO 9001:2008 certification, reflecting its focus on quality management and customer satisfaction. Its mission centers on customer delight, ethical business practices, and achieving global technology and trade leadership, with a strong emphasis on organizational excellence and employee empowerment[3]. A notable aspect of Intex’s history includes its ownership of the Gujarat Lions IPL cricket franchise during 2016 and 2017, demonstrating its engagement beyond technology into sports[1]. Today, Intex is also a proud participant in India’s Make-in-India initiative, operating a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Jammu. Under the leadership of Narendra Bansal and currently his son Keshav Bansal, the company continues to innovate while maintaining its core values of transparency, quality, and customer-centricity, positioning itself as a respected and enduring player in the consumer electronics industry[1][2][3].
Bestway
The term "Bestway" can refer to several organizations, each with distinct roles and achievements in different fields. Here's a summary of some notable entities: ## Bestway Technologies **Bestway Technologies** is a global provider of cloud-based learning and performance support resources. It offers high-quality e-learning courses to organizations, aiming to enhance their technical capabilities and align learning with business objectives. The platform focuses on areas like cloud, design, security, mobile, and data. Notably, Bestway Technologies provides free access to many of its programs for a short duration, allowing users to evaluate and continue with paid options if desired[1]. ## Bestway IT **Bestway IT** specializes in new technologies and supports companies in evolving their information systems. It provides comprehensive services and turnkey solutions to help businesses master their processes across various sectors, including public, educational, banking, and more. Bestway IT combines customer needs understanding with technological expertise to deliver strategic solutions in areas like human resources and sales force[2]. ## Bestway Cement Limited **Bestway Cement Limited** is a leading cement producer in Pakistan, manufacturing over 10 million tons annually. The company uses advanced technologies like SAP S/4HANA and IBM Power Systems to streamline operations and improve efficiency. This integration has enabled real-time data access, reduced operational costs, and enhanced environmental sustainability. Bestway Cement is recognized for its environmental excellence and corporate social responsibility[3]. In summary, "Bestway" organizations are involved in diverse sectors, from technology and education to cement production. Each entity is noted for its innovative approaches and contributions to their respective industries. Whether through e-learning, IT solutions, or sustainable manufacturing practices, these organizations are making significant impacts in their fields.
Summer Waves
Summer Waves is a multifaceted organization primarily known for its long-standing presence in the seasonal outdoor water recreation market and its popular water park. Founded in 1968 by entrepreneur John Smith in Ocean City, New Jersey, Summer Waves began as a retailer selling affordable outdoor water play products like swimming pools, beach toys, and sprinklers. Smith’s vision was to recreate the carefree joy of summer for families nationwide. Over the decades, the company expanded from a single store to a national brand with over 300 retail locations and distribution through major chains such as Walmart, Target, and Amazon, offering a wide product range including pools, water slides, floats, and more, while maintaining its core mission of delivering summer fun[1]. In addition to its retail operations, Summer Waves operates a notable water park located on Jekyll Island, Georgia. This 11-acre park features ten water rides and serves as a family-friendly destination during the summer months, running from mid-May through early September. The park is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity; in 2025, it became a Certified Autism Center™ after training over 80% of its staff to support autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors, providing amenities such as a dedicated sensory room to enhance accessibility and comfort for all guests[3][4][8]. Summer Waves is also known for its above-ground pools under the Summer Waves brand, designed for easy backyard installation and durable use, with varied sizes and models to cater to different family needs. These pools are marketed as affordable, high-quality options to create backyard water fun. However, some concerns and customer complaints about safety and warranty issues have been reported concerning certain pool models, reflecting ongoing challenges in product quality and customer service that the company faces[5][6][7]. Overall, Summer Waves presents a compelling combination of legacy retail expertise, family-oriented product innovation, and inclusive recreational experiences, making it a notable player in the seasonal water entertainment sector with a strong emphasis on accessibility and customer engagement.