Guidelines for Swimming Pools Impacted by Fire, Smoke, and Ash
Inspection: Inspect the enclosure, barriers, the pool itself, safety equipment, pool recirculation equipment and plumbing, ancillary facilities, and all related appurtenances for any damaged or broken equipment. Check with your local Building Department for requirements related to replacement or repair of equipment or structures.
Water Quality:
Remove debris from the skimmer baskets, and skim the water surface to remove floating debris
Loosen contaminants by brushing the sides and bottom of the pool, and vacuum the pool.
Backwash and clean the filter. Waste and wastewater shall be discharged into an approved discharge system, such as the municipal sanitary sewer system, only. Backwashing into the storm drain system is prohibited by law.
Ensure the recirculation system is working properly by checking the filter pressure and/or the flow meter.
Check the pH of the water and adjust to 7.2 - 7.8.
Check the free chlorine residual and adjust to a minimum of 1.0 ppm for swimming pools and 3.0 ppm for spas and waders.
Debris removal and filter cleaning may be required several times as more ash and debris fall in the days and weeks following the fire event.
If hiring a swimming pool service company, check their license and experience servicing pools
Pool Draining: If draining the pool is necessary, contact your local stormwater agency for guidance. Generally, the pool water should be de-chlorinated to 0.0 ppm chlorine and have a pH of 7.2-8.0 before draining.
Pool Enclosure: If the enclosure has been damaged or destroyed, immediately install a temporary enclosure that is secure to prevent potential drownings or injuries.
Deck Cleaning:
Do not hose down the deck to storm drains.
You may lightly spray the dirt and debris with water to prevent the dust from becoming airborne.
Use a stiff brush or broom, or a mop and bucket, to sweep up the dirt and debris.
Discard debris with solid waste.
Mosquito Breeding: Pools with standing water can breed mosquitos. Contact the County of Ventura Vector Control at (805) 654-6582 to request mosquito-eating fish until power is restored to the pool recirculation system.
