Sorting pool safety

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Water safety basics

We’re all aware of the potential hazards of water – all it takes is a moment’s inattention and disaster can strike.

Fact is, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children in New Zealand. The good news is that drowning is preventable if parents and caregivers are aware of the simple things they can do to help keep their children safe from drowning. Be within sight and reach of young children, be aware of all potential water hazards, put appropriate safety precautions in place and be prepared. One point to remember is experts advise that swimming lessons don’t make children safe, only safer. So don’t over-estimate your child’s ability to cope in the open water environment even if they know how to swim.

The keys to staying safe

• Learn swimming and water safety survival skills – and CPR, be ready to respond in an emergency • Choose to swim at patrolled beaches and swim between the flags – if there are no patrols learn how to recognise dangers such as rips and avoid them • Actively supervise children near water – that means adult supervision within arm’s reach, focused on the child, not reading or texting • Wear a lifejacket when rock fishing or in small boats – it’s the one thing that could save your life if you fall in to the water • Check the latest marine forecast and tides before heading out on the water, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return, and carry at least two forms of communication on your person – so you can call for assistance • Don’t add alcohol to the mix - never when supervising children in and around water • Know your responsibilities around home pools and spas, including inflatable or portable pools.

Sorting pool safety

A check list to help prevent drownings

Is the latch on the gate to your swimming pool working properly? Are there any parts of the fence small children might crawl under? Checking these and other aspects of a pool is one of the things New Zealanders can do to help children stay safe around swimming pools.

Checks and other advice include:

• Ensure the gate latch clicks shut automatically. Over time the spring can become less effective. Hold the gate open at varying distances from the lock and check it springs shut and fully latches • Ensure there are no gaps under the gate when it is closed and there is no part of the fence small children could crawl under (maximum permissible gap between ground and fence/gate is 100mm) • Never prop the gate open • Check the condition of a metal fence. The joints can become weak due to rust and have been known to come apart with a firm tug • Check the condition of a timber fence. As the structure ages, the screws and nails can loosen and allow the slats to be removed.

Similarly, the wood can age and weaken, so any rotting sections should be replaced • Always keep moveable objects (such as plastic chairs, bricks or pot plants) well away from the pool area. A child can drag them and then use them to climb over the fence • Remove any tree branches that could allow a child to gain access to the pool area • Clear toys from the pool area, so it is not tempting for children to go in. Local councils throughout New Zealand can offer guidance on ensuring your pool meets all the safety regulations. Further information is available at Water Safety New Zealand: www.watersafety.org.nz.