Panel: Child deaths in inflatable pools increase

Seventeen children drowned in inflatable pools last year, the commission said. This is up from nine in 2004 and 10 in 2003. About 280 children under age 5 die in pools each year.

The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, a trade group for the industry, does not track inflatable pool sales, spokeswoman Suzanne Barrows said. But she agreed that their popularity seems to be growing.

The association recommends layers of protection and responsible adult supervision for all pools. Safety standards for the larger inflatable pools are the same as for other above-ground pools, Barrows said. One of the organization's committees is looking into establishing standards specifically for larger inflatable pools, she added.

The safety commission recommends barriers such as fences to surround inflatable pools, and door alarms if a house forms one of the barrier's walls. Vallese also emphasized the importance of constant supervision.