Before my kids get the all-clear to jump in the pool, I take a minute to walk around and do a quick safety check. I’m not counting how many kids are already splashing or checking if the water looks crystal clear.
I’m checking the drain.
It’s one of those things most people overlook—but it’s a small detail that can make a huge difference in safety. As both a pediatrician and a mom, it’s a non-negotiable for me.
Pool and spa drains can create serious suction, especially if the cover is broken, missing, or not up to safety standards. That suction has caused hair, clothing, or even limbs to get trapped underwater. It's rare—but when it happens, it’s fast, silent, and incredibly dangerous.
If you’re thinking, “Wait... I don’t even know where the drain is,” don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here’s what to look for:
✅ Drain cover is secure
✅ Cover is curved or dome-shaped
✅ Quick suction check with a toy (or my hand)
✅ No visible blockages or debris on the drain
✅ No sharp edges or random hazards in or around the pool
In some shallow or kid-friendly pools, you might notice several “drain-looking” covers that are pushing water out instead of pulling anything in. Those are usually:
Return Jets or Circulation Outlets
These are part of the pool’s filtration system—water gets cleaned and then pushed back into the pool through these jets. They often:
You might also see:
What I do as a pediatrician mom:
Even when I see water flowing out, I still give it a quick check. I wave my hand in front of the grate—if I feel water clearly pushing out and no suction, it’s likely a return jet. Still, I remind my kids to steer clear of sitting on or putting their face near any openings.
And if I’m not sure? I ask. A simple, “Are these return jets or suction drains?” can give peace of mind in seconds.
Let’s be real: if a suction-related issue is happening, it’s not something most kids can just “wiggle free” from. That’s why prevention is key, not reaction.
If the drain cover looks cracked, broken, or anything just feels off—pause the swimming. Tell the pool owner, manager, or lifeguard. If it's a backyard pool and no one’s sure, better to delay swimming and have it inspected than to take a chance.
If you own a pool, make sure your drain cover is VGB-compliant (named for Virginia Graeme Baker, a young girl whose tragic death led to important pool safety laws). These covers are designed to prevent dangerous suction and entrapment.
I know it’s easy to assume everything is fine when it’s a pool you’ve been to a dozen times—your community pool, a friend’s backyard, even your own.
But things change.
That’s why I make it a habit to do a quick check every single time we swim—whether it’s the first visit of the season or the third dip of the day. It takes under a minute, and it gives me peace of mind before the water fun begins.
It might feel awkward to be “that mom” walking around the pool doing a safety check—but honestly? I’ll proudly wear that badge. Because at the end of the day, our kids’ safety is always worth a few extra seconds.
So next time you're at the pool, check that drain. Test the suction. Look for anything sharp. And then? Let the splashing begin—safely. 💦
