Water is a powerful conductor of electricity. Follow these tips and stay aware of electrical hazards around your pool or hot tub:

• 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 (GFCI). 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• When you leave the pool, don’t change the radio station or touch any electrical appliances until you are dry —never touch any electrical appliances when you are wet or standing in water. 
• If children wish to play with sprinklers or hoses, make sure they are well away from appliances. 
• If potential safety hazards are considered and handled proactively, accidents and deaths can be avoided.