Swimming pool safety

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Pool fences

If you have a swimming pool or outdoor spa, it must have a childproof fence around it. This is law in all Australian states and territories.

A pool safety fence should meet Australian Standard 1926 (AS:1926) safety requirements.

A safe pool fence:

• is at least 1.5 metres high
• is strong and secure
• has a self-closing child-resistant gate
• has vertical bars no more than 100 mm apart
• has horizontal bars at least 900 mm apart.

Safety fences can only do their job when you use them correctly.

• Keep the gate shut so that children can't get through without you. Never prop it open. Maintain, repair or replace the safety latch if it isn’t working properly.
• Keep the area around the fence free of pot plants, chairs and barbecues that could be used to climb the fence.
• Always watch your child when he's in the water.
• Display a CPR chart by your pool.

• Water mats, lifesaver rings, inflatable vests and water wings need to conform to the relevant Australian Standard. Always watch your child when he is wearing floatation devices, to make sure he doesn't tip upside down or slip through into the water. Floaties are no substitute for supervision. An adult needs to be within arms' reach at all times when your child is in or around the water.
• Always watch small children while they are playing in a paddling pool, and empty the pool when children have finished playing.
• Neighbours' pools can also be a danger to your child. If your neighbour's pool is not properly fenced, it may be worth letting them know about the pool-safety regulations. If that's not possible, keep an eye on your child to make sure he doesn't make unsupervised visits, and tell him about the dangers of swimming without an adult.

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