As the pool toys and lawn chairs begin to find their seasonal homes in sheds, garages, and basements everywhere, it is time to think about packing up the pool chemicals as well. It is important to remember that many of the common chemicals you use in your pool can be potentially dangerous to you and your family if they are not stored and handled properly. The first thing all pool owners should do is read the labels on every chemical container. Each pool chemical has its own specific needs for storage. If anything on the label does not make sense or if you have additional questions about the product, call the manufacturer and ask them to clarify -- it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Here are some general tips for storing and handling pool chemicals:

Storing and Handling Chemicals

• Store all chemicals in a cool, dry place that is well ventilated
• Store chemicals safely out of reach of direct sunlight and children 
• Ensure each chemical's lid is securely attached to the container 
• Always store liquids below powder chemicals on the storage shelf
• Separate pool chemicals from items such as gasoline, fertilizer, paints, and other flammable products during storage
• Never reuse empty chemical containers for anything 
• Do not mix old chemicals with fresh chemicals, even if they are the same type of chemical
• During winter storage, lock the storage room where the chemicals are located if possible 
• Keep water and moisture away from chemicals as much as possible. If you use a scooping device to put the chemical in the pool, be sure the device is dry before putting it back into the chemical's container 
• Keep all chemicals away from heat or flames

While it is important to know how to store and handle the chemicals, it is even more important to know how to react in the event of an emergency.

In the event of:

Skin/Eye Contact: Flush the affected area with water for several minutes and contact a doctor. Check the product instructions for additional suggestions in the instance of skin or eye contact.

Ingestion: Call the poison control center immediately. Do not force vomiting unless it is directly stated on the chemical's label to do so.

Fire: Do not use a dry chemical fire extinguisher in the event of a fire. The pool chemicals can cause an adverse reaction with the chemical in the fire extinguisher. Use large amounts of water to put out the fire and if it does not go out, call the fire department.

Storing and handling pool chemicals is something to take very seriously. There are several severe consequences that can occur if storing and handling of pool chemicals is not done properly. Taking extra precaution will ensure you and your family will not be harmed and your pool chemicals will be ready for you to use when the next swim season arrives.