Swim or sink: Understanding the risks and being proactive.

Un wildfire’s devastation extends far beyond charred structures. For homeowners with swimming pools, the question isn’t just about the house, but also about the safety and usability of their pool. So, is your swimming pool safe after a wildfire? The answer is nuanced, demanding a thorough assessment and proactive measures to restore water quality and ensure structural integrity.

The Assault of Wildfire Ash

Wildfire ash isn’t just inert dust. It’s a complex mixture containing burned vegetation, building materials, and potentially hazardous substances. This airborne debris settles everywhere, including in your swimming pool, introducing a range of contaminants that can impact water quality and pose health risks.

Here’s a breakdown of potential contaminants found in wildfire ash:

Heavy Metals: Ash can contain heavy metals like arsenic, lead, and mercury, which can leach into the water and pose health risks upon ingestion or skin contact.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): PAHs are a group of chemicals formed during the incomplete burning of organic materials. They are known carcinogens and can contaminate both the water and surrounding surfaces.
Nutrients: Ash contains nitrogen and phosphorus, which, while beneficial in small amounts, can cause algae blooms in swimming pools, leading to cloudy water and increased chemical demand.
Debris and Particulate Matter: The ash itself is particulate matter that can cloud the water, clog filters, and create an unsanitary environment. This includes larger particles and embers carried in the wind.
Combustion Byproducts: Ash can contain a variety of organic and inorganic compounds produced during combustion, some of which may be harmful to human health.
Chemicals from Burned Structures: The most concerning contamination comes from the destroyed remains of houses. Homes contain any number of products that will leech into the pool water. Melted PVC can release benzene, a known carcinogen. Pools near homes are often contaminated with construction products like paints and solvents.
Asbestos: If your swimming pool was exposed to ash from a wildfire, there is a potential concern regarding asbestos contamination. Older buildings and materials that may have contained asbestos could have been damaged by the fire, releasing asbestos fibers into the air which could then settle in your pool water and surrounding areas. This is a particular concern in locations like the Los Angeles wildfires, where estimates say up to 90% of the structures that burned were built in the 1970s or earlier, when asbestos building products were widespread from roof to basement. It is advisable to have your pool professionally inspected and cleaned by a qualified asbestos abatement company after a wildfire to ensure safety before using it again.

Chlorine and Cleaning Salts: Can They Save the Day?

Chlorine and salt-based chlorine generators are commonly used to sanitize swimming pools. While they play a crucial role in killing bacteria and algae, they may not be sufficient to address all the contaminants introduced by wildfire ash.

Chlorine’s Role: Chlorine can oxidize some contaminants, but it’s not effective against all of them. For instance, it may not completely remove heavy metals or PAHs. Chlorine also reacts with organic matter in the ash, potentially reducing its effectiveness and leading to the formation of disinfection byproducts, some of which are harmful.
Saltwater Systems: Saltwater systems still rely on chlorine production through electrolysis. Therefore, they face the same limitations as traditional chlorine pools in dealing with wildfire ash contaminants.
Cleaning Salts are simply used in salt water generators to produce chlorine.

Insurance Coverage: Navigating the Financial Aspect

Your homeowner’s insurance policy may offer some coverage for pool cleaning and repairs after a wildfire, but it’s essential to review your policy carefully. Coverage typically falls under the “debris removal” or “other structures” sections of your policy.

Debris Removal: This coverage may help offset the cost of removing ash and debris from your pool.
Other Structures: If the fire caused structural damage to your pool, such as cracked tiles or damaged equipment, this coverage may apply.
Testing: Coverage may also extend to water testing. Most homeowner’s policies will offer this service if you call and ask.

Document all damage and expenses thoroughly, and consult with your insurance adjuster to understand the extent of your coverage. Keep any professional assessment paperwork to show the assessor.

Plumbing and Equipment: Hidden Dangers and Potential Issues

The impact of wildfire ash extends beyond the pool water itself. Your pool’s plumbing and equipment, including filters, pumps, and heaters, can also be affected.

Clogged Filters: Ash can clog filters, reducing their efficiency and potentially damaging the pump.
Corrosion: Ash can be corrosive, potentially damaging metal components in the plumbing system.
Heat Damage: Pumps can overheat and suffer damage if the pool water is very ashy.
Melted PVC: Homes can contain all manner of plastics that seep into the pool when destroyed by wildfires. PVC melting can release benzene, which is highly toxic.

Will My Pool Be Drained as Part of the Government-Sponsored Program?

Following a wildfire, government agencies like FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers often assist with debris removal efforts. The Army Corps of Engineers advises that pool water may be pumped out of swimming pools for wetting the debris, which is used to keep dust down during the debris removal process. Any fire debris in the pool will be removed by the contractor. The contractor will place metal fencing completely around the pool where feasible and notify the homeowner.

The Army Corps of Engineers typically focuses on large-scale debris removal, particularly on public lands and rights-of-way. However, their services may extend to private properties in certain circumstances.

This only pertains to pools adjacent to structures that are considered within the ash footprint.

Ensuring Pool Safety: A Step-by-Step Approach

Before using your pool after a wildfire, follow these steps to ensure its safety and usability:

Visual Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the pool and surrounding area for any signs of damage, such as cracks, debris, or displaced tiles.
Debris Removal: Remove all visible debris, including ash, leaves, and other materials. Use a pool vacuum or skimmer to remove fine particles.
Filter Cleaning: Clean or backwash your pool filter thoroughly. You may need to replace the filter media if it is heavily clogged.
Water Testing: Have the pool water professionally tested for contaminants, including heavy metals, PAHs, and bacteria.
Chemical Adjustment: Adjust the pool’s chemical levels based on the water test results. Shock the pool with chlorine to kill any remaining bacteria or algae.
Plumbing Inspection: Have a qualified pool technician inspect the plumbing system for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Professional Cleaning: Consider hiring a professional pool cleaning service to ensure a thorough cleaning and decontamination.
Refilling: You may need to drain your pool completely and refill it with fresh water if the contamination is severe.

Proactive Steps for Peace of Mind

While a wildfire can present significant challenges to pool owners, taking proactive steps to assess, clean, and decontaminate your pool can restore its safety and usability. By understanding the potential risks, following recommended cleaning procedures, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can enjoy your pool with peace of mind.