closing pool removing stairs

I have had an above ground pool for years and we have always pulled out the stairs. My stairs are heavy big 4 step plastic stairs and it has been a hassle to take them out. they have sand in them and fill with water when put in pool. My pool is old and I am concerned with pulling them out this year and putting them on the small deck that rests on the side of the pool. I don't want to compromise that side of the pool. Can this type of stairs be left in the pool during the winter? I live in Connecticut and it can get cold. I believe that with pulling out the tall rails that I can cover the pool with no problem. any advice.

I honestly don't know.

If you can remove the rails, and if the steps remain UNDER the water and ice, I would think they would be OK. But, I don't know for certain - winterizing in Georgia and Tennessee is different then winterizing in Connecticut!