(KnowRisk)
If you have a pool in your backyard or frequently attend one with your children, there are a few things you can do to prevent what should be a fun time turning disastrous.
Summer is finally here and many of us will be looking forward to spending some time in the backyard pool to cool off and have some fun. Unfortunately, recent studies by Royal Life Saving Australia have shown that drowning deaths have increased in the last 12 months, meaning the need to be vigilant around water is as great as ever, especially when children are concerned.
If you have a pool in your backyard or frequently attend one with your children, there are a few things you can do to prevent what should be a fun time turning disastrous.
Safety barriers
While laws differ from state to state, it is advisable that any pool or spa on a residential property has safety barriers installed around it restricting access. All safety barriers will likely need a building permit and must have a lockable, self-closing gate or door in order to be fully compliant. Make sure the barrier is fitted and maintained by a trained professional and remember to remove any items such as chairs, boxes or stools that children can use to climb over the fencing.
Be vigilant
While safety barriers are a must and provide some piece of mind, they are no substitute for proper adult supervision. Supervising doesn’t just mean throwing the occasional glance; kids can be innovative and very determined. Make sure you always maintain visual contact with them whether in a private pool or at a public, supervised pool. If you have to leave the poolside, take your children with you; all too often people mistakenly think a fence is good enough to keep their little ones safe.
Teach them
In a land surrounded by water, taking your children to AUSTWIM accredited swimming classes is one of the most important things you can do to keep them safe around water. By understanding the basics of water safety skills, your children will be more confident in the pool. A good tip is to make it fun. Try this great water safety quiz to see how much they know.
Clean up afterwards
Did you know that a child can drown in less than 5cm of water? It doesn’t seem like much but it doesn’t take a lot of water to pose a threat. When you’re finished with them, empty paddling pools and put them away; also empty any baths, basins, sinks or buckets.
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