Ensuring Child Safety Around Pools: Importance of Compliant Pool Barriers
When it comes to spending time with our families, there is nothing quite like a day at the pool! Swimming and splashing around in the water brings us all joy and creates unforgettable memories. However, as adults, we must also be responsible for ensuring the safety of children around pools. Let’s discuss the importance of compliant pool barriers in keeping children safe around pools.
Understanding the Risks
According to the World Health Organisation, drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional death among children aged 5–14 years old. In fact, it is estimated that over 236,000 people died from drowning in 2019 alone.
Compliant Pool Barriers: What are They?
Compliant pool barriers refer to any physical barrier that restricts access to a swimming pool, making it difficult for children to enter without supervision. These barriers can include fences, walls, gates and covers.
Types of Compliant Pool Barriers
Depending on the state you live in, there are several types of compliant pool barriers that can be used to keep children safe around pools. These include:
- Fences: A fence should be at least 1.22m high, with no gaps or protrusions that could be used as footholds.
- Gates: Gates should be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch located at least 1.37m from the ground.
- Covers: Pool covers should be strong enough to support the weight of a child or adult, and should not have any openings large enough for a child to fall through.
Benefits of Compliant Pool Barriers
- Prevents Accidental Drowning:
The primary benefit of compliant pool barriers is that they prevent accidental drowning. They create a physical barrier between the child and the pool, making it difficult for them to enter without adult supervision.
- Encourages Active Supervision:
Compliant pool barriers also encourage active supervision by limiting access to the pool area. This means that adults will be more likely to keep an eye on children while they are near the pool.
- Compliant with Local Laws and Regulations:
Having compliant pool barriers in place ensures that you are following local laws and regulations. This not only keeps your family safe but also protects you from any potential legal issues.
Tips for Ensuring Compliance
To ensure that your pool barriers are compliant and effective in keeping children safe, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Perform regular maintenance checks
- Keep the area around your pool barriers clear of any debris or objects that could potentially be used as a foothold for children.
- Teach your children about pool safety and the importance of staying away from the pool unless accompanied by an adult.
As adults, it is our responsibility to keep children safe around pools. By implementing compliant pool barriers, we can prevent accidental drownings and create a safer environment for our families. Let’s make sure that every trip to the pool is a fun and safe experience for everyone involved. Contact Pacific Smoke Alarms today for more information!