With the weather warming up, those of us lucky enough to have a pool in the backyard are probably getting it ready for summer. While adding the pool cleaner and removing leaves is often high on the agenda, Kidsafe Victoria is reminding families about pool safety, specifically the need for adequate fencing.
According to Kidsafe, drowning is one of the leading causes of death for Australian children aged under five, and pools are the most common location for drowning in this age group, accounting for 38 per cent of drowning incidents.
Sadly, 21 Australian children aged up to four drowned in 2011 and 2012.
That’s something secure pool fencing can help prevent.
Over time, with pool and spa fencing exposed to extreme weather and wear and tear, including rust, missing bolts or screws and other damage, it’s important for fencing to be checked and maintained.
The Victorian government’s Closing the Gate on Backyard Pool Drowning campaign encourages pool and spa owners to visit the Kidsafe website and use the pool and spa checking tool, developed by Life Saving Victoria, to check the safety of pool and spa areas.
» For more information on pool and spa safety, visit: kidsafevic.com.au
