By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would require alarms in all existing, newly-renovated and newly-constructed residential swimming pools, hot tubs and spas. The measure would impose a fine of between $100 and $500 on violators.

“I sponsored this legislation in order to bring a higher level of safety to the commonwealth regarding swimming pools,” said sponsor Rep. Angelo Puppolo (D-Springfield). “The installation of a swimming pool alarm is a simple measure that can save a person’s life. An alarm, when activated, detects when someone enters the pool so that no person is unnoticed whether they are an adult or child.”