New safety law requires owners of public pools to fill out survey

Last update: June 23, 2008 - 8:15 PM

THE LATEST: As part of a new state law, public pool owners in Minnesota must complete a survey by July 1 about their pools and the drain covers in order to renew or receive an operating license, the state Health Department announced on Monday.

HOW TO COMPLY: The department has created an online survey asking for the information at www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/pools/forms.html.

Also, the drain covers must meet industry standards, be properly installed and not be broken or loose.

It will meet one of the requirements of the new law requiring licensing and inspection of all public pools in Minnesota, including those connected to buildings, townhomes and fitness centers.

The law was named after Abigail Taylor, the Edina girl who died last year after part of her intestinal tract was ripped out by the suction from an uncovered wading pool drain.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call the Health Department's environmental health services unit at 320-223-7300.

TERRY COLLINS