Tips for Keeping Your Pool Safe

Maintain the Condition of Your Fence

Legislation requires pool owners to keep all pool barriers in good condition.

Check from time to time whether the barrier's rigidity has been compromised.... have any components become detached or damaged?
Are all gates free of obstruction and self closing? Check whenever used.
Could any new work e.g. gardens or paving, reduce the effective height (minimum 1200mm) of the fence?
Over time have gaps under the fence widened and become greater than 100mm?
Do trees and shrubs need to be cut back?

Maintain the Effective Height of Your Fence

Have moveable objects been placed close to the pool fence (inside or out) which can be reached and climbed by young children?

Examples include: Barbecues and gas bottles
Potted plants
Ornaments
Wheelie bins are easily moved and become a big step when laid on their side

Have you considered stacking and storing light weight outdoor furniture when not in use?

Resuscitation Signage

Legislation requires pool owners to display a compliant resuscitation sign in a conspicuous position.

Is your sign current and in good condition?
Does it refer to the emergency treatment of young children?
Can your sign be read in a hurry?

IF THE UNTHINKABLE HAPPENS
YOU MAY HAVE LESS THAN 10 SECONDS TO RESPOND EFFECTIVELY

Have you read and understood the instructions?
Are you confident that you can act effectively in an emergency?
Have you considered enrolling in a basic resuscitation/emergency care course or refresher
course? (Links to Royal Life Saving, St John's Ambulance etc providers?)
Do you have a family emergency action plan?

pool safety - water safety

Number 1 Tip For Keeping Young Children Safe:

Active Adult Supervision

Drownings and immersion injuries involving young children typically involve a lack of adult supervision or a breakdown in supervision due to distraction......phone call, door bell, accident involving sibling, nappy change, kitchen spill, bathtime.

Young children should NEVER be left in the care of older children. Make sure Pool Fence is taller than the children.

Young children should ALWAYS be supervised within arm's reach when swimming or near the pool or spa.

Pool toys should be stored away from the pool enclosure.

REMEMBER.... DROWNING IS A SILENT KILLER

DON'T RELY ON A CRY FOR HELP.

Government Links

Tips to Make Your Pool Safer

Tips for Pool Owners, Landlords, and Real Estate Agents

New Pool Safety Laws

Pool Safety Guidelines

Review of Queensland Pool Safety Laws

Queensland Development Code MP 3.4

Building Amendment Regulation #4

The Royal Life Saving Society Australia have produced a number of fact sheets which are an invaluable resource for all pool owners and parents of
young children.

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