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Good Advice |
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Home Pools
Swimming pools and spa pools are part of the way of life for
many New Zealanders. They provide wonderful opportunities for family
and friends to gather together and have fun.
Unfortunately, pools are also dangerous places where many injuries and
drownings occur each year. Drowning is the second major cause of accidental
death for pre-school children. Home swimming pools and spa pools represent
the greatest single danger. Currently four children (average past five
years) under the age of five drown in these pools per annum.
Swimming pool fences save lives!
New Zealand has one of the highest drowning tolls amongst OECD countries.
Since the introduction of the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 the number
of children who drown in home pools has declined by 60%.
Children have the right to be protected.
It is your responsibility as an adult to ensure the children you are
caring for are safe. Unfortunately, the majority of children who drown are
alone and unsupervised, or in the care of other children at the time.
 
Supervision without any distractions is the single most important factor
in protecting children in and around water. ALWAYS SUPERVISE CHILDREN NEAR
WATER - ALWAYS!
Proper supervision in and around water means a responsible adult keeping
young children in their care both within sight and within reach.
Ask yourself: Is your pool safe?
Checklist
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No |
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Is the fence at lease 1.2m high? |
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Are there no gaps in fencing greater than 100 mm ? |
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Do gates open outwards? |
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Do gates shut automatically? |
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Are gate latches are self locking? |
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Are there top bolts on ranch sliders that prevent access to the
pool? |
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Are steps for para-type pools removed when the pool is not in
use? |
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Does the pool surround have a non-slip surface? |
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Is there a first aid kit available? |
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Are pool chemicals stored safety? |
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Do you have signage for emergencies? |
For more information on swimming pool safety visit the PoolSafe® website
www.poolsafe.org.nz by clicking on the
PoolSafe® logo at the top of this page.
Resources are available from Water
Safety New Zealand Inc
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