Council Checks on Pool Safety Before Summer

Each year, in the Auckland region, almost half of the children under the age of five who drown do so not at a wild west coast beach but in a backyard swimming pool. If you have a pre-school child, the second major cause of accidental death will be lurking not on a busy main road but in your own home.

New Zealand has one of the highest drowning tolls amongst OECD countries and this year, in preparation for summer, Franklin District Council is doing something to help change that figure. Their Building Inspectors are travelling throughout the District checking on pool fence compliance.

“Since the introduction of the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 the number of children who have drowned in home pools has declined by 60%. Franklin District Council wants to help make sure our children can have a safe summer this year and for years to come,” says Franklin District Council’s Group Manager Environmental Services, James Jefferson.

Remember that it’s your pool and the lives of your family and visitors are your responsibility, says Council. They have a page on their website, www.franklin.govt.nz, all about Swimming Pool Fencing and also a link to Water Safety New Zealand.

“If you have a swimming pool, check today whether it complies with the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act. If you don’t check, we will,” says James.

Franklin District Council suggests you answer the following questions to see whether your pool complies with the Act. This isn’t an exhaustive list of what the law required but it’s a good start. If you answer no to any of the questions you may need to improve your swimming pool safety. You can call Franklin District Council’s Building Unit for advice and support on 237 1340.

Is the fence at least 1.2m high?

Are there no gaps in fencing greater than 100 mm?

Do gates open outwards?

Do gates shut automatically?

Are gate latches self locking?

Are there top bolts on ranch sliders that prevent access to the pool?

Are steps for para-type pools removed when the pool is not in use?