A Brisbane family are mourning the loss of their two children, aged three and four, after they drowned in the home’s pool last week.
Although the pool passed fencing regulations, Australians are being urged to consider going above and beyond the standard.
SWIMART, Australasia’s largest pool and spa specialist group are encouraging homeowners to insure their properties comply with local council regulations and to remain vigilant during summer’s peak swimming season.
“Owning a pool or spa is one of life’s great pleasures, but for the safety of young children and non-swimmers, it’s imperative that they are properly secured and regularly maintained,” Chris Fitzmaurice, national manager of Swimart said.
“With children under the age of five at most risk of drowning, nothing replaces close supervision by a responsible adult.
"However, having complying fences and gates around pools and spas goes a long way to reducing the very real danger of children wandering into water they can’t handle,” he said.
Each state and territory in Australia has its own laws regarding pool fencing and homeowners are advised to check with their local SPASA (Swimming Pool and Spa Association) or local council.
Apart from standard fencing, pool owners can improve family safety and security with other options. Here are some examples:
Pool covers
Keeping the pool covered will keep it clean and could prevent children or pets from risk. There are soft covers, hard covers and automatic covers. Before selecting a cover for your pool, consider the weight restrictions so it’s guaranteed the one you buy can support your child or pets weight.
Water pool alarm
Water pool alarms can alert pool owners if a child or pet falls into a swimming pool. The device attaches to the side of the pool and has an electronic sensor that is initiated when displaced objects weighing 8kg or over enter the pool. The weight restriction means branches and leaves won’t trigger the alarm. It has an alarm within the device, as well as a wireless remote receiver for inside the home.
