What to do when a hurricane is coming.

If you have a safety cover (this cover is attached to anchors in the deck around the pool), put it on. These covers are designed to hold even in the winds of a hurricane. Make sure that your straps are taut but not so tight that the spring (if you have this type) is completely compressed. It is also a good idea to put some padding between the cover and the edge of the pool. This will prevent the cover from being abrased by the edge of the pool as it moves with the wind. You can use old towels, water tubes, etc. for this.

You should remove your skimmer lids (these make good frisbees) and any other loose items. If, by chance, you have no storage space for your patio furniture, go ahead and put it in the pool. At least you will know where it is when it's all over! Raise your sanitizer level to its maximum level ( shock it if you use chlorine or bromine). Turn off your filter system before the storm hits, but do not drain the system. This will prevent the motor from burning up if the system becomes clogged or the line voltage drops. By leaving the water in the filter system, the extra weight will help hold down the equipment.

If you live in a low lying area that may be flooded, you should fill the pool as full as it will go. This will help prevent damage to the structure of the pool if the ground around it becomes saturated, causing the pool shell or liner to float.

Finally, if you have to spend money to clean up the mess afterwards, check with your homeowners insurance. They may pay for the cleanup and should certainly pay for any damage. Good luck!