SwimLine FrogLog Critter-Saving Escape Ramp

• Material: Denier nylon non scratch surface and nylon mesh
• Size: The float measures 14" x 11" plus the mesh skirt
• Use: Works with pool water levels that fluctuate between 3" and 10" below the deck
• Works with above ground pools but may need a modified method to secure if there is not a deck. A clamp works well to secure to the top plate.

Developed by: Rich Mason.

Manufactured by: Swimline Corp.

• The set up time is 5 to 10 minutes.
• Access the inflatable bladder from the opening in the back edge. To inflate the bladder, pinch the base of the nozzle and blow air in. For more instructions review the FAQ
• Fill the weight pouch with 1.5 cups of sand or pea gravel (Not included). Review the FAQ for more weight options
• Place on the edge of the pool keeping the float tight to the pool wall
• Make sure the FrogLog is always in the pool at night when animals are active
• Use the suggested number of units based on pool size and other factors - see below

Why do frogs and other animals enter swimming pools?

Most animals probably get into swimming pools by accident. Some animals may be trying to get a drink and accidentally and fall in. Amphibians may enter swimming pools due to their natural attraction to water or to breed. Toads and frogs may notice moths or other bugs on the water surface and enter the pool for a meal.

How can I reduce the incidents of finding animals in my pool?

1. Use a swimming pool animal escape device such as the FrogLog.
2. Enclose a pool with a screen to exclude frogs, mice and other small animals from access to pools. This obviously is an expensive solution.
3. Use a pool cover, especially at night, to reduce, but not eliminate, frog  access to pools. Small animals will still crawl under the cover. In addition to a cover, install an animal escape device.
4. Install a solid wooden fence around the pool to reduce animal access. Install metal flashing or screen around the base of a chain link or open picket fence to reduce amphibian access.
5. Use a non-toxic method to sanitize the water such as ionization. This will reduce the animal exposure to toxic chemicals but still not prevent animals from drowning.

How do I ensure the best efficiency of my FrogLogs?

Make sure the back edge of the float is tight to the wall of the pool. Place the FrogLogs upstream of the flow of water toward the skimmer intakes. Make sure the FrogLogs are always in the pool at night when most animals are active. Make sure the correct number of units are used based on the size of your pool.

How many FrogLog units should I use?

The chart below should be used as a guideline. If you have a problem with mammals (mice, chipmunks, moles, squirrels) the higher number of FrogLogs should be used. When a mammal falls into a pool, they can quickly become exhausted from swimming. The sooner they find an escape route the more able they are to climb up the FrogLog and escape.

Why do Frogs and salamanders die in my pool, aren't they aquatic animals?

Amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders) have permeable skin. Chlorine will enter the bloodstream of amphibians through their permeable skin. Saltwater pools are also toxic to amphibians. Therefore, minimizing exposure time to chlorinated or salt water is important.

Sometimes I still find very small toads dead in the pool when using the FrogLog. Why?

Very small amphibians are very sensitive to chlorine Therefore, adding additional FrogLog units will reduce the exposure time to chlorinated water as the animal will escape more quickly.

Will the FrogLog work for rabbits?

The FrogLog has not been tested on rabbits. It has been tested on mice, squirrels, chipmunks and many other small animals.

Is there an optimum time to run the pump and filter to reduce animal deaths?

Yes. Running the pump and filter during the day is the best option. Daytime is when the water needs filtering due to the growth of algae and the oils and lotions that get into the water from swimmers. Most animals are active at night. If you use FrogLogs and run the pump and filter at night, animals may get drawn into the skimmer intake before finding a FrogLog.

How does the FrogLog differ from the Critter Skimmer?

The FrogLog can be placed anywhere around the pool deck and offers a quick escape route for animals. Multiple Froglog units can be placed around the pool to ensure animals escape quickly. The Critter Skimmer is an escape ramp that is placed inside the skimmer intake. Animals have to enter the skimmer to escape. Unfortunately, animals could be exhausted or dead by the time they enter the skimmer. The FrogLog and Critter Skimmer can be used together, especially if the pump and filter are run at night.

How do I repair the inflatable bladder?

Simply use a PVC repair kit which can be found at a hardware store or pool store.