Canberrans are being urged to be extra vigilant around backyard pools this summer and to check if fencing and barriers meet current standards.
Leading the call, Minister for Sustainable Building and Construction, Rebecca Vassarotti said many backyard pools met the compliance standards when they were first built, but had not been required to meet updated standards.
“During the warm summer months, backyard pools and spas can be welcome places to escape the Canberra heat, but some pool barriers in the ACT do not meet current pool safety compliance and maintenance standards, making them a threat to serious injury or backyard tragedies,” Ms Vassarotti said.
“While supervision is the best way to prevent drownings or serious injury, a lack of adequate pool fencing and maintenance can be a key contributing factor to these incidents occurring,” she said.
“I encourage owners to check if your backyard pool meets the current standards set out in the Building Code of Australia and begin to rectify their fencing and barrier to ensure no tragedy takes place in their backyard.”
Ms Vassarotti said the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate was developing details of a scheme which would require pool owners to have a pool fence that met current safety standards.
The Minister encouraged people to check that pool fences, gates and other barriers were secure; supervise children at all times; and keep gates to pools and spas shut.
“As we head into the warmer months, I urge Canberrans to be vigilant with their children and family around swimming pools,” she said.
“With impacts of COVID-19 including children having less access to swimming lessons and organised water activities, it’s more important than ever to be vigilant and keep our young people safe,” Ms Vassarotti said.
Further information on pool barrier safety can be accessed at this PS News link.
