Dead Animal in Pool

February 7, 2019

How to Handle Dead Animals in Your Pool: A Guide for Pool Owners

Finding a dead animal in your pool can be an unpleasant surprise, especially during the summer months when wildlife is often in search of water. If you encounter this situation, it’s important to handle it properly to ensure your pool remains safe and sanitary. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove the animal and disinfect your pool effectively.

Step 1: Safely Remove the Animal

  1. Gather Your Supplies
    Start by locating a disposable object, such as a plastic bag or a pool net, to remove the animal from the water. If you use your pool net, make sure to disinfect it afterward to prevent contamination.
  2. Disinfect Your Equipment
    To disinfect the net or any tools used, soak them in a bucket filled with water and chlorine for at least two hours. This ensures that any pathogens are eliminated.
  3. Dispose of the Animal
    • For small rodents, place the animal in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it in your regular trash.
    • For larger animals, contact your local animal control or call 311 for guidance on proper disposal methods.

Step 2: Disinfect the Pool

Once the animal has been removed, the next step is to disinfect your pool to ensure it is safe for swimming:

  1. Clear the Pool
    Make sure no one uses the pool until it has been properly disinfected.
  2. Shock the Pool
    Administer a shock treatment to the pool water, raising the chlorine level to 20 parts per million (ppm). This will help kill any bacteria or pathogens that may have been introduced.
  3. Run the Pump
    Allow the pool pump to run for 24 to 48 hours to circulate the chlorine throughout the water.
  4. Clean the Filter
    After the circulation period, clean or backwash the filter to remove any contaminants that may have accumulated.
  5. Check Chlorine Levels
    Before allowing anyone back into the pool, ensure the chlorine levels have dropped to a safe range of 1 to 5 ppm.

Need Help? Contact Our Trained Technicians!

Dealing with a dead animal in your pool can be daunting, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At Everblue Pools, our trained technicians are equipped to assist with these situations and ensure your pool is safe and clean. Contact us today for professional help!