Stay Cool and Safe in the Pool this Summer

Published on 30 November 2020

Image of swimming goggles in pool with text: Is your pool a safe pool?

A child can drown in seconds. Drowning continues to be one of the leading causes of accidental death for Australian children under 5 years of age. Many of these occur in swimming pools, due to faulty or non-compliant barriers. 

Things you can do to make your pool a safe pool:  

  • Gain a safety compliance certificate 
  • Teach your children to swim 
  • Watch children in the pool & remain an arm’s reach 
  • Always watch your child when using flotation devices 
  • Ensure child-resistant barriers are installed correctly 
  • Maintain, repair or replace a faulty safety latch 
  • Remove climbable objects from around the fence 
  • Never prop open the pool gate 
  • Stay accredited with first aid skills 
  • Display a resuscitation CPR chart on your pool fence 

What types of pools need fencing?  

 ANY pool capable of being filled with water greater than 300mm in depth must have permanent child-resistant fencing however children should still be supervised during use and the pool emptied after use.  

By law requires that child-resistant barriers are required for permanent pools, portable pools and outdoor spas.  

Need assistance? 

Whether you have a new or existing pool or spa, our compliance officers can ensure your pool is a safe pool.  

There are possible insurance and legal implications for property owners of residential and holiday lettings if their pool is non-compliant.  

For more information on Council's webpage on Swimming Pools & Spas or call Council on 4429 3111. 

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