The four shock factors   Electrical hazards   Power safety quiz   Beware of power lines!   Pool safety   Construction sites   Info-Excavation   Power safety games		Pool safety A pool can't be installed just anywhere... Many factors must be taken into consideration before you install a pool. Did you know that it's important to take clearance standards into account when choosing its location? Furthermore, your pool must not encroach on Hydro-Québec's right-of-way (an area that's clearly indicated on your survey certificate as being set aside for Hydro-Québec's use) or extend to the rear of your lot if your home backs on to a power line. It's all a matter of safety. If you don't obey these rules, Hydro-Québec might be forced to modify your service loop, in which case you would have to assume the cost. And don't even consider doing this yourself-it's far too dangerous a job! Before installing your pool, phone Hydro-Québec at the number marked in the top right corner of your bill for free advice on where it should go. If digging is required, call our Info-Excavation line at (514) 286 9228 (Montréal area) or 1 800 663 9228 (elsewhere in Québec). Remember: power lines are dangerous, whether they're installed underground or overhead! A pool can't be installed just any which way... So … you think you've found the right spot for your pool and are ready to have it installed? Before you begin, make sure that the chosen location meets the clearance requirements set forth in CSA standards. These standards specify minimum distances from any overhead or underground electrical installations. They apply to both in-ground and above-ground pools, including diving boards, slides, pool ladders and raised decks built around above-ground pools. Clearance requirements for an in-ground pool Clearance requirements for an above-ground pool Things to remember before installing your pool Consult Hydro-Québec. Our advisers will help you choose the best location. Remember that your pool must not be installed under electrical wires, encroach on Hydro-Québec's right-of-way, or extend to the rear of your lot if your home backs on to a power line. Before digging on your property, call our Info-Excavation line at (514) 286-9228 (Montréal area) or 1 800 663 9228 (elsewhere in Québec). Make sure your installer complies with CSA clearance standards and all local bylaws. Leave all electrical work to a licensed electrician. Call the Lifesaving Society at (514) 252-3100 or 1 800 265-3093 for tips on how to prevent accidents in and around your pool. Once your pool is installed … Play it safe! Hydro-Québec and the Lifesaving Society wish you many hours of fun in and around your pool. Because accidents happen so quickly, however, be sure to keep safety in mind at all times. Remember that water and electricity are a deadly combination. Make sure that the electrical wall outlet on the side of the house facing the pool is equipped with a ground-fault circuit interrupter. Check your pool filter's power cord. Is it in good condition? Is the round grounding prong still intact? Does your pool area's electrical lighting system meet current standards? Never leave young children unattended, even for a moment. Install a non-climbable fence at least 1.2 m (4 ft.) high around your pool. If you have an above-ground pool, the sides may serve as a safety fence provided they meet the 1.2-m height requirement. Make sure your safety fence has a self-closing, self-latching gate. Gates of this type are equipped with passive locking systems such as spring-latch and hinge mechanisms. Always keep a cell phone as well as rescue equipment such as a buoy or non-conductive pole within easy reach. Keep electrical appliances such as radios, conventional telephones and television sets well away from the pool. The consequences of such an appliance falling into the water could be fatal. If you have an above-ground pool, install your filter more than 1 m away in order to prevent children from using it as a stepstool to climb into the water. A fibreglass pole could save your life! Long-handle pool accessories-even wooden ones-can cause electrocution if they're used too close to electrical wires. That's why we recommend that you buy a leaf skimmer with a non-conductive, fibreglass pole. It could be a real life-saver!