Hurricane Prep for Sarasota Pool Owners

Never fully drain your pool ahead of a hurricane. Sarasota sits close to the water table on the barrier islands — the pool water weight holds the shell in place against groundwater pressure.

Lower the water level a few inches to absorb rainfall, shut off electricity to the equipment at the breaker, protect the pump, heater and salt system from windblown debris, and clear anything on the screen cage that would land in the pool. Secure loose furniture well away from the pool and the cage.

After the storm, don't turn equipment back on until the pad is dry and the pump hasn't been submerged by storm surge. Skim debris continuously and shock the pool to handle organic contamination washed in from the yard.