It's hurricane season on Oahu, a time when the risk for wind damage and flooding is greatly heightened. Despite the risk, it's possible to protect your swimming pool from damage during this time of the year. M & M Pool Services, Honolulu's premier pool maintenance company, is here with a few tips on keeping your pool safe in the event of a hurricane. They are available 24/7 for emergency pool repair and can also help you with some of these necessary preparations:

• Clear Your Drains: Tropical storms and hurricanes can cause your pool to overflow, which is why now is a good time to test how well your deck drains work. Using a garden hose, note how long it takes for the water to drain. If you have blockages, give M & M Pool Services a call, and they will remove obstructions or install a more reliable drainage solution.

• Keep Your Pool Full: If a storm is imminent, keep your pool full. The weight of the water will preserve the integrity of your pool foundation. Draining your pool could cause more harm than good; the bottom and sides of your pool will be more likely to pop out or break when nothing is holding them down.

• Cover Your Pool: Use a cover that is designed to resist strong winds. Do not use the kind that requires weights, as these will prove useless during a tropical storm.

• Shocking: Superchlorinating your pool water may help prevent contamination during the storm.
• Electricity: You should turn off all electrical power near your pool before the storm hits, and store all loose furniture indoors.

For expert help preparing your pool for a storm, give M & M Pool Services a call at (808) 375-6816, or email mnmpoolservices@gmail.com.