A swimming pool can be the entertainment centre of a home. However, there are some dangers associated with all types of pools, particularly for young children.

Pool cleaning systems

In the past, there have been a number of incidents which have occurred when children have become trapped in some types of cleaning and skimming systems used in swimming pools.

The types of pool cleaning devices involved in these incidents have included:

• potty-style skimmer boxes and
• in-floor cleaning systems using suction outlets that are located on the bottom of the pool.

Reduce the risks

Check what pool cleaning system is used in your swimming pool. If you are unsure, contact the pool builder or your local pool service provider for help.

If you own a swimming pool with a potty-style skimmer box (so-called as it resembles a child’s potty) you should ensure that the skimmer box lid is securely attached by glue or screwed down in place so it can't be removed.

If you own a swimming pool with an in-floor cleaning system using suction outlets (outlets that draw from the pool) you should:

• check that the covers of any pool suction outlets, particularly those of main drains, are firmly and properly affixed using the manufacturer’s recommended parts
• check that the suction outlet does not present an entrapment risk for the body, hair, fingers or toes
• ensure that any broken or damaged suction outlet covers, particularly those of main drains, are replaced immediately.

All pool owners should:

• make sure that anyone using their pool, particularly children, does not play with or near any pool outlets
• know the location of the on/off switch for the pool filtration system
• make sure the on/off switch for the pool filtration system is clearly labelled
• ensure that an approved resuscitation chart is displayed in the pool area.

Electrical hazards

Pools and electricity can be a lethal combination. Be very careful with swimming pools that have portable electrical pumps and filter systems. Unlike in-ground pools, there is no protective housing for these products.

When buying pools with electrical pumps and filters you should:

• make sure the pump and filter have an electrical safety approval number or Regulatory Compliance Mark
• check they are suitable for outdoor use
• fit a safety switch to the house where the pool will be used
• arrange for a licensed electrician to install a suitable weather-protected electrical power point close to where the pool equipment will be located to avoid the use of extension cords.

If it is necessary to use flexible extension cords:

• only use heavy duty cords and always roll them up and store them overnight or when not in use
• do not join a number of extension cords together – purchase a single cord of the required length

• make sure extension cords are not damaged by people walking or driving over them or by pets chewing on them
• ALWAYS remove the extension cords prior to mowing any lawn area near the pool.

Fencing requirements

Owners of premises with swimming pools must ensure:

• their pools are surrounded at all times by a child-resistant safety barrier separating the swimming pool from any residential building and any place adjoining the premises
• all doors and gates providing access to the swimming pool are kept closed at all times
• a warning sign is displayed near the pool.

Fences surrounding pools must be designed, constructed, installed and maintained to comply with Australian standards for swimming pools. Contact your local council for further details.

Inflatable pools

Although inflatable swimming pools can also be a great source of fun, especially for small children, there are hazards associated with these products that you must be aware of:

• toddlers can drown in very shallow water
• children can become ill when pool water is left unsanitised for long periods of time
• electrocution is a very real threat when portable electrical pumps and filter systems are not used properly.

Warnings

Owners and purchasers of inflatable swimming pools should observe any warning labels attached to the packaging and the product.

The information supplied on the warning label can vary according to the height of the pool.

Also, it is vital that pool owners, parents and carers are aware of the potential for drowning even in shallow water.

You should ALWAYS SUPERVISE CHILDREN when they are using these products. It is also important to:

• ensure that the water is kept pure
• empty the pool and store it safely away from young children when not in use.

NOTE – For large inflatable pools of 300mm or more in height consult your council on fencing requirements, child-resistant barriers and a warning sign display.

IMPORTANT – The labels on inflatable pools warn pool owners, parents and carers of the potential for drowning, the need for water purification and the possible requirements of child-resistant safety barrier. For your family’s safety, make sure you read them.