The CPSC recalled approximately 13,400 Blue Wave above‑ground pools on Dec. 18 because an exterior compression strap can act as a foothold and create a drowning risk for children. The recall affects 15 models (48 inches and taller) sold nationwide from January 2021 through July 2025; full model numbers are listed in the notice. Owners should request a free repair kit from Blue Wave at (800) 603‑0475 or recall@bluewaveproducts.com and keep children away or drain the pool until repairs are completed. The agency noted the same design flaw has been linked to at least nine deaths across multiple brands over the past 15 years.
CPSC Recalls About 13,400 Blue Wave Above‑Ground Pools Over Drowning Hazard
gettyKids splashing in pool (stock image)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced on Dec. 18 a recall of roughly 13,400 Blue Wave above‑ground swimming pools after determining an exterior compression strap can serve as a foothold, creating a risk that children could climb into the water even if the ladder is removed.
The recall covers 15 Blue Wave models that are 48 inches tall and above. The affected pools were sold nationwide at The Home Depot, Lowe’s and Dunham’s Sports, and online at Amazon, Walmart and Wayfair between January 2021 and July 2025.
What’s the Hazard?
Compression Strap (Reinforcing Belt): The strap that runs around the outside of the pool can be used as a step or foothold. That provides a way for a child to climb into the pool when a ladder has been removed, posing a drowning risk.
cpsc.govBlue Wave pool
Which Models Are Recalled?
The recall applies to these model numbers: NB19790, NB19791, NB19797, NB19798, NB19890, NB19891, NB19900, NB19902, NB19904, NB19905, NB19906, NB19907, NB19908, NB19909 and NB19910.
What Owners Should Do
- Contact Blue Wave to request a free repair kit by calling (800) 603-0475 or emailing recall@bluewaveproducts.com.
- Until the repair is installed, ensure children cannot access the pool unsupervised or drain the pool entirely.
- Follow the repair instructions carefully and confirm the foothold hazard has been eliminated before allowing children near the pool.
Blue Wave had not issued a public comment at the time of the CPSC release. CPSC Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman noted there have been no reported deaths or injuries tied specifically to Blue Wave pools, but said the same design flaw has appeared in multiple above‑ground brands and has been associated with "at least nine deaths over the past 15 years." Feldman criticized prior agency leadership for slow action and urged owners to install repairs promptly.
This recall follows a much larger July 2025 CPSC action that recalled more than five million above‑ground pools because of the same foothold hazard. The recent steps reflect ongoing agency efforts to address a recurring safety problem in certain pool designs.
Safety Reminder: If you own an affected pool, obtain the free repair kit immediately, keep children away from the pool area until the repair is complete, and consider draining the pool if you cannot guarantee secure supervision.
