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January 4 – Swimming pool safety reminder from Council

4 January 2013

As the heat of summer peaks, Strathfield Council would like to remind all residents with swimming pools to check their pool fences and always supervise children around water.

Drowning is one of the major causes of death for NSW children under the age of five. Each year on average 10 children under the age of five drown in backyard swimming pools and many more suffer brain damage and other serious injuries associated with near-drowning experiences.

Mayor of Strathfield, Cr Gulian Vaccari said pool safety is a real threat in any backyard pool.

“Swimming is part of an Australian summer and it should be enjoyed. But it must be remembered that pool safety is everyone’s responsibility and accidents can happen when you least expect it. Parents need to supervise their child, pool owners need to check their gates,” Cr Vaccari said.

NSW legislation requires all backyard pools to be appropriately fenced, however parents are also reminded that a secure pool is no substitute for responsible adult supervision. Children in or around the water must be watched at all times, regardless of their swimming ability.

Some safety reminders for pool owners:

  • Always keep your fence in good repair and regularly check that all gates, doors and window locks are in working condition.
  • Don’t leave objects near the fence as children may use them to climb over,
  • Don’t leave any gates and doors propped open.
  • Always leave your filter covered so small children can’t get in to it.

Strathfield Council has the authority to inspection backyard swimming pools and issue fines if a pool fence does not meet legal requirements.

For more information about pool safety requirements, visit www.strathfield.nsw.gov.au or contact Council on 9748 9999.

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