Be pool wise - supervise

Kidsafe

November 17, 2009

The importance of constant supervision cannot be underestimated.

According to The National Drowning Report 2009, published by the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia, drowning is one of the major causes of death for children who are less than five years of age. In 2008/09 there were 32 drowning deaths in young children and many more children suffered near drowning experiences and were treated in hospital.

In addition, the Report states that most of the drowning deaths resulted from the child falling or wandering into the water and, as was the case in previous years, the swimming pool is the most common location.

Each State and Territory across Australia has specific regulations governing swimming pools. It is important that pool owners check with their local authority or government agency and are informed about these regulations. There are also Australian Standards relating to Swimming Pool Safety (AS1926.1 Swimming Pool Safety and AS 2818-1993 Guide to Swimming Pool Safety)

In NSW, for example, laws governing pool fencing are undergoing major changes which are likely to include a requirement that all new backyard pools will have to have a four-sided barrier and that on-the-spot fines may be issued to pool owners who fail to meet safety standards.

For further information on pool safety and pool fencing regulations in NSW go to:
The NSW Safe Waters Initiative at www.safewaters.nsw.gov.au/fencepools.htm
The NSW Department of Local Government at www.dlg.nsw.gov.au/dlg/dlghome/dlg_index.asp

For nation-wide information on pool safety, including a pool safety checklist, go to:
The Royal Life Saving Society at www.royallifesaving.com.au

How to keep your pool safe
Most people love to swim or relax around water, so it is important to ‘spot the potential hazards’ and manage the risks so that families can enjoy the fun and friendship that we associate with outdoor recreation. This can be achieved by following some basic safety rules in and around water*. For example:

Never leave a child unsupervised around the water.
If you must leave the pool area, take the child with you
Always keep your fence in good repair and gates and doors and window locks in good working condition. Remember – children can drown in fenced pools.
Always leave your filter covered so small children can’t get into it or get their hair or limbs caught in it.
Don’t leave objects near the fence as children may use them to climb over.
Don‘t leave any gates or doors propped open. Small children are curious.
A secure pool is no substitute for responsible adult supervision. Children in or around the water must be watched at all times. No matter what their swimming ability, children should always be closely supervised.
It is essential that children are taught to swim from an early age.
Never use flotation aides (eg bubbles etc) unless under the supervision of a capable adult. Remember, they are not life saving devices.
Training in resuscitation techniques will give adults the skills required for emergency situations. It is recommended that at least one adult supervising children is trained in trained in CPR.
Ensure that there is a resuscitation chart attached to the pool fence.
Appoint a ‘LOOK OUT’ when pool parties are in progress so that someone is watching the children at all times. Change the ‘LOOK OUT’ regularly, making sure that the responsible adult remains alert and vigilant. Remember – never mix alcohol and water!!