There are pool projects, and then there are projects that stop being about pools altogether.

The resurfacing of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has become one of the most politically charged aquatic construction stories in recent memory, dragging a relatively unknown contractor, Atlantic Industrial Coatings, directly into the center of a national media firestorm. What might otherwise have been viewed as a complex waterproofing and restoration project is now being debated across cable news, social media, mainstream newspapers, and Google Reviews by people who have never hired the company, worked with the company, or, in many cases, likely even heard of the company before last week.

As the controversy intensified following reporting by The New York Times and other national media outlets, Atlantic Industrial Coatings’ Google Business profile was inundated with one-star reviews from non-customers condemning the company over the project, the politics surrounding it, and the reported ballooning cost of the renovation itself.

Some reviewers accused the company of “destroying” a national monument. Others referenced the project’s no-bid contract status, allegations of favoritism, and ties between the contractor and President Donald Trump. Several reviews contained no written explanation whatsoever, simply dropping the company’s rating lower with anonymous one-star hits.

For contractors in the pool and aquatic construction industry, the situation raises a difficult question:

What happens when taking on a nationally visible project turns your business into collateral damage in a political war you never intended to participate in?

Public Outrage vs Legitimate Reviews

Review bombing is hardly new. Restaurants, hotels, brands, entertainers, and public figures have all experienced it at one time or another. But the reflecting pool controversy highlights how vulnerable contractors can be when political outrage spills into business platforms that were originally intended to measure customer satisfaction.

Atlantic Industrial Coatings currently sits with a devastatingly low Google rating following a flood of politically motivated reviews. Many of the posts appear to come from individuals who were never customers and never interacted with the company in any traditional business capacity.

That distinction is important.

Google reviews were originally designed to help consumers evaluate legitimate customer experiences. Did the contractor show up? Was the workmanship good? Did the company honor its warranty? Was communication professional? Those are the kinds of things reviews are supposed to reflect.

Instead, Atlantic Industrial Coatings is being judged by people reacting to headlines, politics, presidential associations, and media narratives surrounding the reflecting pool restoration.

To those in the trade reading this, that may feel deeply unfair.

A company can spend years building its reputation one project at a time only to watch its online presence get torched in a matter of days because of a politically radioactive contract.

At the same time, there is another side to this discussion that cannot simply be dismissed.

Critics Are Not Inventing the Controversy

To be clear, the backlash here did not emerge out of thin air.

The core issue driving public outrage is not merely the coating color or aesthetic concerns surrounding the reflecting pool. The controversy centers on allegations reported by major national media outlets that a renovation originally discussed publicly as a roughly $1.8 million repair project reportedly ballooned into $13.1 million without a competitive bidding process.

That scrutiny intensified even further after preservation groups filed suit attempting to stop the project altogether, arguing the Trump administration bypassed historic review procedures and oversight protections surrounding one of Washington’s most iconic landmarks.

Critics argue that a taxpayer-funded restoration project tied to the Lincoln Memorial deserves intense public scrutiny, especially if normal procurement channels and preservation reviews were circumvented.

Those are legitimate public-interest questions.

It’s also true that Atlantic Industrial Coatings had never previously held a federal contract before being awarded the reflecting pool project, further fueling criticism surrounding the administration’s selection of the company. At the same time, President Trump publicly described the contractor as “a guy who’s unbelievable at doing swimming pools” who had worked on projects connected to his properties.

Industry experts have also raised legitimate technical concerns about the renovation itself. Tim Auerhahn, chairman of The Aquatic Council, told The New York Times that the reflecting pool’s longstanding algae and filtration issues would not simply disappear because the basin was coated blue, stating plainly, “Painting is not going to solve that problem.”

It is not unreasonable for journalists, watchdog groups, preservation advocates, or even members of the pool industry itself to question how a federal project increased in scope and cost so dramatically, or whether the work being performed fully addresses the reflecting pool’s underlying structural and mechanical problems.

The problem is that public scrutiny surrounding a project can quickly become public punishment of the contractor itself.

And those are not necessarily the same thing.

Contractors Rarely Control the Politics Around a Job

One of the realities of working in construction, especially at the commercial or municipal level, is that contractors often inherit political baggage they did not create.

A contractor may bid or accept work based on technical specifications, project scope, deadlines, and compensation. They are not necessarily the architects of procurement policy, government oversight, or political messaging surrounding the project.

If the reports are accurate that Atlantic Industrial Coatings was brought in under accelerated timelines for a nationally scrutinized restoration effort, they may simply have been the company willing and capable of executing the work under extraordinary pressure.

That distinction is important because the online reaction increasingly treats the contractor as though they were personally responsible for every political decision tied to the project.

For contractors watching this unfold, the message is unsettling.

Take on a politically sensitive project and your business may become permanently associated with national controversy whether you intended that or not.

“Trump’s Pool Guy” and the Optics Problem

The optics surrounding the project became even more combustible once national reporting began characterizing Atlantic Industrial Coatings as connected to Trump properties and previous work involving the president’s golf clubs.

Fair or unfair, that framing changed the narrative instantly.

The company was no longer simply a contractor restoring a reflecting basin. It became, in the public imagination, “Trump’s pool contractor.” In today’s hyper-polarized climate, that label alone was enough to trigger backlash regardless of the technical merits of the work itself.

For some people, the project immediately became symbolic of broader grievances involving politics, government spending, favoritism, and executive power.

Once that happened, Atlantic Industrial Coatings was no longer operating inside the normal rules of reputation management.

They became a proxy target.

Is Google Responsible for Fixing This?

That question is becoming increasingly difficult for platforms to ignore.

Google’s policies prohibit reviews from people who did not have a legitimate experience with a business, and many of the reviews targeting Atlantic Industrial Coatings appear to fall squarely into that category. Several are openly political, some contain no actual review content, and others seem tied entirely to reactions from national news coverage rather than firsthand customer experiences.

At the same time, the situation is more nuanced than a traditional fake review campaign.

Critics would argue the company accepted a highly visible public contract tied to taxpayer money, historic preservation concerns, and a politically charged administration. Supporters counter that Google Reviews were never intended to become a public referendum on federal politics or presidential decision-making.

That’s really the issue.

Atlantic Industrial Coatings is not being judged primarily on workmanship, communication, or customer satisfaction. The company is being judged on a national controversy surrounding a project most reviewers have no direct connection to.

For contractors, that’s a troubling precedent.

Because once online review systems become vehicles for political outrage rather than legitimate customer feedback, any company attached to a controversial public project can find its reputation under attack regardless of the quality of its work — suddenly becoming one headline away from being the next target.

Watch this article as a video:

Featured Photo Credit: ZUMA Press, Inc. | Alamy

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 New partnership integrates Carvin’s premium aboveground pool systems with CCEI’s TILD smart automation platform

Los Angeles, California- CCEI North America and Carvin Pool Equipment have formalized a strategic partnership that delivers an integrated, app-controlled aboveground pool solution engineered for the U.S. market. The collaboration pairs Carvin’s industry-recognized pool and equipment expertise with CCEI’s TILD connected automation platform, offering pool professionals and end users a turnkey system that simplifies installation and elevates pool management.

At the core of the partnership is Carvin’s premium aboveground pool line, now available with the TILD automation control system— CCEI’s flagship connected Vigipool, app-based automation solution. TILD enables single-app control of pool heaters, pumps, filters, lighting, and chemical dosing and monitoring equipment, meeting growing consumer demand for intuitive, easy-to-install smart pool systems.

“CCEI is committed to the growing demand for our products in the U.S. market and the TILD’s automation’s value for pool professionals,” says Martin Grenier, Sales Manager for CCEI.  “We are excited to partner with Carvin’s extensive presence in the U.S. to bring the CCEI automation system to more U.S. pool professionals and consumers.” 

The partnership draws on the distinct strengths of each organization: Carvin brings market knowledge and a trusted distribution network in the U.S., while CCEI contributes a proven track record of connected pool innovation and adaptable product architecture. Together, the two companies are developing a cohesive, high-value offering designed to meet the specific performance requirements of the U.S. pool market.

“We know that the U.S. consumers purchasing Carvin Pools wants to control everything with an app on their phone,” explains Tony Guagliardo VP US of Sales for Carvin Pools, a manufacturer of above ground pools and equipment headquartered in Quebec, Canada. “The CCEI automation system is the ideal solution to offer our customers because the TILD & free Vigipool app provide a simple and affordable automation solution that is proven in Europe and we are thrilled to help expand this technology in the US.”

Looking ahead, the partners plan to expand the product portfolio with new water treatment solutions, further strengthening the integrated offering. Both companies are committed to building a sustained and growing joint presence in the United States, with the shared goal of providing pool professionals with reliable, market-adapted technology they can count on.

More information about CCEI’s US operations can be found at:

www.ccei-pool.com/us/

424-800-2191

CCEI USA Inc.

808 Hindry Ave, Suite G

Inglewood, CA 90301 

Pictured from left to right:

Michael Durand – Project Manager VIF Group

David Danyluk – Project & Quality Director VIF Group

Martin Grenier – Sales Representative CCEI Pool North America

Klaudia Parker – SVP Sales & Marketing Carvin Pool Equipment 

Alain Barabé – Senior Industrial Designer Carvin Pool Equipment

Sébastien Chereau – Marketing Director CCEI Group

About CCEI North America

CCEI is a French-founded manufacturer (est. 1973) specializing in innovative,, smart, and sustainable electrical equipment for swimming pools, including LED lighting, salt chlorinators, and automated control systems. Renowned for its Vigipool connected ecosystem, CCEI provides smart, user-friendly, and low-voltage solutions for pool maintenance and monitoring, with manufacturing sites in France, Romania, and a dedicated North American presence.

About Carvin Pool Equipment

Carvin is a North American manufacturer of high-performance above-ground pools, pool pumps, and filtration systems. Founded in 2009 following the acquisition of Competition Pool Inc. and the Jacuzzi® pool equipment line, Carvin launched its own brand after eight years under the Jacuzzi® name to lead with innovation and quality.  In 2017, Carvin launched its first above-ground pool series, entirely designed by our in-house team to introduce bold new architectural elements to the pool frame.  As part of Le Groupe VIF, Carvin draws on over 50 years of plastic injection molding expertise. Our 180,000 sq. ft. Canadian facility features 34 injection molding machines (21 robotic), blow molding, custom wall machinery, and in-house R&D — giving us full vertical integration from concept to finished product.

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Water Tech Corp, manufacturer of award-winning battery-operated handheld pool and spa cleaners, has released its 2026 product catalog as an interactive online flipbook—available 24/7.

The 20-page catalog is designed as a comprehensive ordering and service reference for pool professionals. It features detailed product descriptions, SKUs, UPC-12 codes, and part numbers alongside full replacement part breakdowns. Logistics and merchandising data—including unit weights, case weights, retail box dimensions, and case and pallet quantities—that are clearly presented to support purchasing decisions at every level.

Large-format product photography makes it easy to identify and specify the right units, service parts, and accessories for retail floor sets, service trucks, or customer repair needs.
To view the 2026 catalog, visit: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/961943389/

City/State: E. Brunswick, NJ
Website: www.watertechcorp.com
Phone: 800-298-8800

Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/watertechcorpNJ/
https://www.instagram.com/watertechcorp/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/watertechcorp/
https://www.youtube.com/user/TheWatertechCorp

About Water Tech Corp:

Water Tech Corp is the manufacturer of the original Pool Blaster handheld battery powered pool cleaner as well as the powerful Volt and Precision battery powered pool cleaners on the market today. Water Tech has been a part of the pool and spa industry now for 20 years after being founded by Guy Erlich in 2001 in an apartment building in New York City.  Water Tech has always been focused on patented-technologies and designs that have allowed Water Tech to succeed in the very competitive pool and spa cleaner arena. With 19 different US patents on pool and spa cleaners alone and more to come, Water Tech has been able to use its intellectual property and unique product designs to systematically ensure its success in the marketplace. In fact, between 2005 and the present date, Water Tech has received the “Pool & Spa News & Readers’ Choice Award” for “Best New Product” approximately seven (7) times.

The company now operates out of a large facility in E. Brunswick, NJ with more than 20,000 square foot of space.  Water Tech has a reputation for bringing innovative, reliable products to our industry, designed specifically to meet the needs of consumers, service professionals and retailers in the swimming pool and spa market.

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(Alexandria, Va.) — The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, has secured a significant advocacy win with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) regarding enforcement of key requirements within the pool pump motor rule.

DOE has announced that it will delay enforcement of certain energy conservation and certification requirements for small-size dedicated-purpose pool pump motors (DPPPMs), providing meaningful near-term relief for manufacturers, distributors, and other industry stakeholders. Under this enforcement policy, DOE will not seek civil penalties for certain compliance and certification requirements until March 26, 2029, for motors manufactured between September 28, 2027, and March 26, 2029.

While the rule itself remains in effect, this enforcement relief allows the industry additional time to prepare for compliance while helping to avoid unnecessary disruption to the marketplace.

“This is a meaningful and practical outcome for the industry,” says Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President and CEO of PHTA. “PHTA worked directly with DOE to communicate the real-world challenges our members were facing, including product availability, manufacturing constraints, and conflicts with existing safety standards. This decision provides the time needed to align those factors and ensure a smoother path to compliance.”

The original DOE rule, finalized in September 2023, established staggered compliance deadlines, requiring standard-size motors (1.15 ≤ THP ≤ 5) to comply by September 2025 and small-size motors (0.5 ≤ THP < 1.15) by September 2027. DOE acknowledged at the time that limited product availability and manufacturing scale challenges would require additional lead time for smaller motors.

PHTA’s advocacy efforts emphasized not only those manufacturing constraints but also the need to address misalignment between DOE requirements and existing industry safety standards, including UL 1004-10, which is widely used across the industry but not yet fully harmonized with DOE’s regulations for small-size motors.

“This outcome reflects the value of targeted, data-driven advocacy,” says Justin Wiley. “By working collaboratively with DOE, we were able to highlight both the technical and market realities facing the industry. This additional time will help ensure manufacturers can scale production, align with safety standards, and bring compliant products to market without creating unnecessary supply disruptions.”

The enforcement delay will:

• Provide additional time for industry readiness and compliance planning
• Reduce the risk of product shortages and supply chain disruption
• Help address misalignment with existing safety standards
• Demonstrate the impact of effective industry advocacy

PHTA will continue to monitor developments related to the pool pump motor rule and provide guidance and resources to members as the industry prepares for full compliance.
For more information on PHTA’s advocacy efforts and updates on regulatory developments, please visit www.phta.org/advocacy.

About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance:

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with over 4,000 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $62B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth initiatives to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA promotes the use of pools by expanding swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.

The post PHTA Secures DOE Relief on Pool Pump Motor Rule appeared first on PoolMagazine.com - Get The Latest Pool News.

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — May 5, 2026 — Pentair Pool, a leader in smart, sustainable
pool solutions, today announced plans to release a technology integration with Pool Brain, a
premier software platform for swimming pool service and repair professionals, to strengthen
Pentair Pool’s connected equipment ecosystem and further advance Pentair’s vision for data-
driven service and automation for pool professionals. This future integration is designed to equip pool professionals with streamlined, all-in-one insights—enabling faster, more informed service for homeowners.

The long-anticipated integration will bring together Pentair Pool’s connected pool equipment, the largest installed based in the U.S., and automation technology from Pool Brain’s service
management platform to deliver critical insights before a technician ever arrives on site. With the technology integration, for the first time, service professionals will be able to gain a
consolidated, data-driven view of pool conditions through an all-in-one software solution—
helping them arrive informed, prepared, and confident.

“This future technology integration is designed to not only provide pool servicers with deeper
insight into our connected equipment but empower them to deliver superior service to pool
owners” said Greg Claffey, Senior Vice President and President, Pentair Pool. “Together with
Pool Brain this integration will provide insights that will help reduce truck rolls and increase
profitability for servicers while, most importantly, ensuring that pool owners are able to enjoy
more pool days with their friends and family.”

The expected release of the Pentair Pool–Pool Brain technology integration is designed to
support pool service teams with goals of:

• Automated visibility into equipment status and pool performance
• Smarter and simplified service planning that helps reduce truck rolls and diagnostic time
• Improved customer experiences through faster resolution, proactive issue prevention,
  and informed service calls
• Streamlined and focused technology consolidating platforms for more efficient workflows
• Digital access to product information and performance data—making Pentair Pool one of
  the first manufacturers to deliver the insights pros need, directly within the platforms they
  already use.

The collaboration reflects Pentair Pool’s broader vision to deliver connected, intelligent pool
solutions that help save time, build efficiencies, and grow servicer profitability in every stage of operating, servicing, and growing a pool business.

“Remote data monitoring is the future of the pool service industry and this ground breaking
integration with Pentair Pool marks a major step forward,” said Adam Beech, founder and CEO
of Pool Brain. “Pool Brain was built from day one with this future in mind and we’re thrilled to
now integrate with the most widely deployed connected pool equipment in the market. Service
companies will finally be able to connect the equipment on the pad to the software platform they already use to gain automated data visibility, even when not on property. This data, combined with Pool Brain’s alerts and automations create benefits that simply weren’t possible until now. It’s a huge win for both pool pros and pool owners.

Building on its legacy of industry-leading innovation, Pentair Pool is once again redefining how pools are managed and enjoyed. The expected rollout for the Pentair Pool technology
integration with Pool Brain is late summer 2026. Pool professionals can stay up to date on the
next steps for the Pentair Pool–Pool Brain technology integration by signing up to be the first to know how the game is changing in the pool industry, at Pentair-Pool Brain Integration.

About Pentair Pool
Pentair Pool is a Pentair plc business. At Pentair, we help the world sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource. From our residential and commercial water solutions, to industrial water management and everything in between, Pentair is a core large cap value S&P 500 equity stock focused on smart, sustainable water solutions that help our planet and people thrive.

As an industry leader in the pool and spa space, Pentair Pool is driven to help people sustainably enjoy water. Our solutions include industry-leading pumps, automation, lighting, heating, and filtration technologies that help customers enjoy a smarter and more efficient pool. Customer success is central to our vision—bringing family and friends together in the pool and on the deck to build social connections, create lifelong memories, and promote fitness and enjoyment.

For more information, visit pentair.com/pool and follow Pentair Pool on Facebook and Instagram.

About Pool Brain
A modern “all in one” pool software platform built by industry experts to give you more time, more money, and less stress. Key features include fully automated chemical dosing, remote data monitoring, custom alerts, guided workflows, scheduling, route optimization, quotes (estimates), jobs (work orders), automatic billing, self-serve customer portal, products & services management, customer management, multiple bodies of water, equipment tracking, issue reporting, technician controls, built-in customer feedback, mobile app (no signal required), auto-notifications, group emails, reporting and integrations, and more.
For more information, visit poolbrain.com.

Media Contact:
Heather Morris
Pentair Communications
heather.morris@pentair.com

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(Phoenix, Az.) – The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) Central Arizona Chapter, in partnership with PHTA’s Step Into Swim drowning prevention initiative, presented a $20,000 donation to the Valley of the Sun YMCA during a special event on April 30, 2026, at the YMCA Legacy Foundation Chris-Town.

This generous contribution will directly fund swim lesson programs for children and families throughout the Phoenix community, helping increase access to critical water safety education and drowning prevention resources.

The event brought together members of the Valley of the Sun YMCA, leadership from the PHTA Central Arizona Chapter, and special guest Rowdy Gaines, three-time Olympic gold medalist, who leads the Step Into Swim initiative as PHTA’s Vice President of Partnerships & Development.

“Learning to swim is not just a life skill—it’s a lifesaving skill,” says Scott Bushey, President of the PHTA Central Arizona Chapter. “Through this partnership with Step Into Swim and the YMCA, we are proud to invest in programs that give children the confidence and ability to stay safe in and around water.”

Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death in Arizona, particularly among young children. Access to swim lessons has been proven to significantly reduce the risk of drowning, making community-based programs like those offered by the YMCA essential.

“Drowning is preventable, and swim lessons save lives,” says Garrett Brolsma, Chief Operating Officer of the Valley of the Sun YMCA. “We’re grateful to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Central Arizona Chapter and Step Into Swim for this $20,000 investment, which will help more Phoenix families access lifesaving water safety skills.”

PHTA, the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, formed the Step Into Swim drowning prevention initiative in 2012 and has gifted more than 500,000 swim lessons to children and families across the country and abroad. This collaboration with the local PHTA Central Arizona Chapter highlights a shared commitment to water safety and community impact.

“Step Into Swim receiving support from regional PHTA Chapters has a huge effect on individual communities and helps us focus our funding on the children and families who need it most,” says Gaines. “We are proud to work alongside the PHTA Central Arizona Chapter to help the Valley of the Sun YMCA expand the reach of their lifesaving mission, and we thank the local PHTA members who made this generous donation possible.”

The April 30th event included remarks from community leaders, a ceremonial check presentation, and opportunities to highlight the importance of water safety education as Arizona approaches the peak summer swim season.

To learn more, visit www.stepintoswim.org.

About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance and Step Into Swim:
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with 4,000 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $62B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth initiatives to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA promotes the use of pools by expanding swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.

Step Into Swim is an initiative of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance and its foundation committed to safe swim education and drowning prevention. By investing in the next generation of swimmers through learn-to-swim programming, the Step Into Swim initiative instills confidence, empowers long-term participation in water activities, touts the positive benefits of water play, and advocates for safe practices. Since its inception in 2012, Step Into Swim has played a role in reducing drowning fatalities and has gifted swim lessons to more than 500,000 children with support from community organizations, partners, industry advocates, members, and more. For more information, visit www.stepintoswim.org.

About Valley of the Sun YMCA:
The Valley of the Sun YMCA is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the Phoenix community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a strong commitment to water safety, the Y provides accessible swim lessons and drowning prevention education to children and families across the region—regardless of financial circumstance. Through community partnerships and evidence-based programming, the YMCA helps equip individuals with the skills and confidence to be safe in and around water. As Arizona faces one of the highest drowning rates in the nation, the Valley of the Sun YMCA remains focused on expanding access to lifesaving swim education so every child has the opportunity to learn this critical skill.

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A new innovation in pool maintenance is changing how technicians collect water samples for testing. The BackSaver2000, a newly developed water collection device, is designed to improve both sampling accuracy and workplace safety for pool professionals.

Traditionally, pool technicians collect water samples by kneeling or bending over the pool edge with a cup, a method that can lead to repeated strain on the back and knees. The BackSaver2000 eliminates this issue by allowing technicians to collect water easily while standing, significantly reducing the physical stress associated with the outdated conventional method.

Beyond ergonomics, the BackSaver2000 was scientifically tested to ensure the integrity of water samples. Results show that the device collects equal to or less surface water contamination compared to traditional collection methods, helping ensure more reliable water quality testing.

Designed specifically for the demands of the pool service industry, the BackSaver2000 combines a telescoping handle with a collapsible collection cup to make sampling faster, safer, and more efficient. By reducing repetitive strain injuries, companies can also benefit from fewer work-related injuries and potentially lower workers’ compensation claims.

The BackSaver2000 is poised to become an essential tool for pool technicians, offering a smarter and healthier way to collect water samples while maintaining testing accuracy.

For more information about the BackSaver2000, contact your local distributor or visit the product website: backsaver2000.com.

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LATHAM, N.Y. (May 1, 2026) – As families prepare to spend more time outside and in the water, Latham Group, Inc. [NASDAQ: SWIM] is encouraging homeowners to take simple, proactive steps to keep their backyards safe. In recognition of National Water Safety Month this May, the leading manufacturer of in-ground residential swimming pools is teaming up with Olympic and World Championship six-time gold medalist Bode Miller and his wife, Professional Beach Volleyball Champion, Morgan Miller to share essential pool safety reminders.

“Water safety is something that hits very close to home for me, which is why we’ve teamed up with Latham and Coverstar to help bring more attention to drowning prevention,” said Bode Miller. “After losing our daughter, my wife Morgan and I have made it our mission to share our story and help other families take simple, proactive steps that can truly save lives.”

“No parent ever thinks a tragedy will happen to them, but it can happen in seconds,” added Morgan Miller. “If sharing our story encourages even one family to take an extra precaution – whether that’s supervision, swim lessons or adding an automatic safety cover – it’s worth it. These small steps can truly save lives.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the leading cause of death among children ages 1-4, with more than 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths in the U.S. every year.* Taking a few proactive measures can go a long way in helping families enjoy their pools with greater confidence.

“Creating spaces where families can relax and connect is at the heart of what we do, but those moments should always be supported by strong safety measures,” said Sean Gadd, President and CEO of Latham. “Our focus is on empowering homeowners with simple, effective solutions that help make pools safer.”

Following are five important pool safety reminders from the experts at Latham:

1. Keep Active Supervision a Priority. Always have a responsible adult watching when children are in or near the pool. Assign a dedicated “Water Watcher” and stay distraction-free – especially from phones.

2. Start Swim Lessons Early. Teaching kids to swim is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk. According to the National Institutes of Health, formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning in children ages 1-4 by 88%.** The earlier kids build these skills, the better.

3. Add Layers of Protection with an Automatic Safety Cover. An automatic safety cover provides a strong, secure barrier over the pool when not in use. Made with ultra-durable material, these covers help prevent access to the water and offer added peace of mind. Coverstar automatic pool covers are designed with heavy-duty material that can support significant weight, creating a reliable layer of protection for families. A keyed safety switch is required for operation, adding an extra layer of protection.

“Just like any part of the home, pools should be designed with safety built-in from the start,” added Gadd. “Automatic covers are one of the most effective ways to add a reliable layer of protection while also helping homeowners maintain their pool.”

4. Set Clear Pool Safety Rules. Make sure everyone in the household understands basic safety rules, such as never swimming alone and entering the pool feet first.

5. Be Ready to Respond. Keep safety equipment like a life ring and first aid kit nearby and consider learning CPR so you’re prepared to respond in an emergency.

“With these precautions and tools in place, families can enjoy their pool time with greater confidence and peace of mind,” added Bode Miller.

Beyond safety, automatic covers can help minimize water loss, maintain a pool’s temperature – which can help save on electric bills – keep debris out of the pool and extend the swimming season in colder climates.

To learn more about the Millers’ story, visit Coverstar.com. For additional information on water safety and automatic safety covers, visit LathamPool.com.

* Drowning Data | Drowning Prevention | CDC
** Association Between Swimming Lessons and Drowning in Childhood: A Case-Control Study – PMC

About Latham, the Pool Company
Headquartered in Latham, NY, Latham Group, Inc., is the largest designer, manufacturer, and marketer of in-ground residential swimming pools and pool accessories in North America, Australia, and New Zealand. With over 60 years of experience and a coast-to-coast operations platform across 24 locations, the company offers a broad range of pool products, including fiberglass, vinyl liner, and automatic safety covers, all designed to provide homeowners with the highest quality and value. For more information, visit www.lathampool.com.

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(Overland Park, Ks) – The National Water Safety Month Coalition—comprised of the American Red Cross, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), and the World Waterpark Association (WWA)—invites all stakeholders to participate in the month-long celebration of National Water Safety Month this May. National Water Safety Month is an annual awareness campaign that provides water safety education for children and adults ahead of the peak summer swim season.

National Water Safety Month was first recognized as a week-long campaign in 2003 and has continued to expand its reach over the past 23 years, becoming a month-long celebration in 2007. The National Water Safety Month Coalition works together to share important safety information to a wide range of audiences, from parents and caregivers to aquatics industry professionals, and works closely with state and local governments to ensure nationwide support.

“We are so excited to be a partner again this year for National Water Safety Month,” says Alissa Magrum, Executive Director of the NDPA. “We know that when water safety and drowning prevention organizations work together with a shared vision of increasing water safety awareness and sharing educational resources, we can multiply our impact—saving more lives and preventing more drownings. Drowning impacts people of all ages and occurs in all kinds of water. The good news is that drowning is preventable and when we work together, we can save lives.”

The public awareness campaign provides educational programming, public service announcements, government proclamations, business promotions, and water safety-themed materials designed to help prevent water-related illnesses, injuries, and fatalities.

“PHTA is proud to be part of the National Water Safety Month Coalition and play a role in strengthening the pool, spa, and hot tub industry’s messaging around the importance of water safety,” says Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President & CEO of PHTA. “Together, we can drastically reduce drowning incidents by sharing lifesaving resources with families and communities across the country—not just in May, but all throughout the year.”

Additional efforts include advocating for improved legislation at the federal, state, and local levels and securing national media coverage to inform families of how to stay safe in and around the water, not just during the summer swim season but all year long.

The Coalition provides water safety activities and resources such as:

Water Safety Season Toolkit
The NDPA offers a free and downloadable water safety season toolkit complete with social media posts, video PSAs, shareable blogs, press release templates, printable documents, and many more resources to support parents, caregivers, and aquatic professionals to help advocate for water safety and drowning prevention during May and throughout the summer season.

International Water Safety Day
International Water Safety Day (May 15, 2026) is designed to help spread global awareness about drowning prevention and educate youth about becoming safer in and around water. May 15th is a day to share drowning awareness and water safety education by any means possible.

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson
Celebrating its 17th year of saving lives, the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL) holds open registration for aquatic facilities interested in being an official Host Location for the global event that takes place on June 25, 2026. Tens of thousands of kids participate to learn basic water safety skills and help build awareness about the fundamental importance of teaching children to swim to prevent drowning.

Longfellow’s WHALE Tales Water Safety for Children
The American Red Cross offers a complimentary curriculum in English and Spanish complete with interactive videos, posters, and lesson plans that will inspire students while learning to recognize risks and understand water safety.

State Proclamations
The Coalition works to secure gubernatorial proclamations to draw attention to this issue at the state level. Annually, 45-50 governors proclaim May as National Water Safety Month to support this important work.

Safe Swimmer Pledge
Anyone can join the movement to reinforce the importance of water safety and become an advocate in the community. For example, the Safe Swimmer Pledge encourages children to practice safe swimming behaviors such as never swimming alone and obeying pool rules.

Step Into Swim Grants
Step Into Swim, the drowning prevention initiative of PHTA, provides funding to swim lesson providers across the country so they can offer free and low-cost swim lessons to families who could otherwise not afford them.

Social Media
The Coalition will share safety tips and resources across its social media channels throughout the month. Follow along on Facebook and join the #watersafetymonth #NWSM2026 conversations on Instagram. Shareable content is also available through NDPA’s Water Safety Season Tool Kit.

May marks the beginning of swim season as beaches, pools, and waterparks begin to open and people spend more time outdoors. The National Water Safety Month Coalition is determined to increase awareness about vital water safety practices to help keep children and families safer around water. Learning to swim and practicing safe behaviors are critical first steps.

Parents, educators, caregivers, and business owners can find detailed information and free resources in support of National Water Safety Month at www.NationalWaterSafetyMonth.org.

About the National Water Safety Month Coalition
National Water Safety Month is made possible by the National Water Safety Month Coalition, led by the American Red Cross, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, and the World Waterpark Association. Since 2003, members of the Coalition have worked to raise awareness and promote water safety through educational programs, public service announcements, governmental proclamations, and easy-to-access water safety information and materials. To learn more, visit www.NationalWaterSafetyMonth.org.

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San Francisco, CA (April 30, 2026) — Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1–4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5–14 (NDPA), and this May, SafeSplash Swim School is marking a milestone in the fight to change that. As National Water Safety Month kicks off, SafeSplash celebrates nearly 10,000 children who have completed the S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Promise, a first-of-its-kind program designed to give kids the real, measurable swimming and water safety skills they need to stay safe.

The S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Promise is a structured, results-driven program with clear milestones and a timeline, teaching kids critical self-rescue skills like floating, rolling to breathe, and swimming to safety. If swim students do not hit their goals within a year, SafeSplash offers up to two additional months of free lessons.

“Water safety isn’t a one-time conversation, it’s a culture we build together,” said Chris Harkness, President at SafeSplash Swim School. “Through this program, we’re focused on delivering meaningful progress and real safety outcomes for every swimmer. We’re proud to stand alongside the NDPA in advancing a shared mission to prevent drowning and build safer communities.”

The program is backed by the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), and this year that partnership reached a new level. SafeSplash has become the only learn-to-swim provider in the country to earn the NDPA’s Platinum Seal through its newly launched Commitment to Safer Waters Program, the highest recognition given to organizations that demonstrate a deep, proven commitment to drowning prevention.

“Our Commitment to Safer Waters Seal is more than just a badge, it’s a public declaration that an organization is a true champion for water safety,” said Alissa Magrum, Executive Director of the NDPA. “We are proud to recognize SafeSplash Swim School as they reinforce industry best practices and lead the charge in protecting children and families from drowning and water-related tragedies.”

SafeSplash Swim School continues to lead the way in swim instruction, offering expert guidance in top-tier facilities while striving to make swimming safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. As drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death among kids, initiatives like the Water Safety Pledge and S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Promise are essential in creating a generation of confident swimmers prepared to stay safely around water.

To learn more about the S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Promise and explore participating locations, visit safesplash.com/safer-swimmer-promise.

About SafeSplash Swim School

SafeSplash Swim School, a part of Youth Enrichment Brands, promotes a lifetime of water safety and opportunity by teaching the joy of swimming. With over 200 swim schools in its network, it uniquely combines learn-to-swim programs with elite competitive instruction, catering to a diverse clientele and allowing franchisees to pursue their passion. The progressive curriculum ensures swimmers learn the correct techniques from the start, fostering safe, strong, and confident individuals who will enjoy the water for years to come. By offering the industry’s most consistent and premium learn-to-swim and competitive programs, SafeSplash Swim School aims to make a lasting impact in the community through exceptional instruction in the industry’s most advanced facilities.

The post SafeSplash Swim School Marks 10,000 Kids Safer This Month appeared first on PoolMagazine.com - Get The Latest Pool News.