Drowning is the leading cause of accidental deaths of children under the age of five. Tragically the majority of these deaths occur at home in swimming pools.

I wish to highlight that faulty pool fencing and gates are a major contributing factor in the rate of drowning in backyard swimming pools amongst children under 5 years of age.

You can make your home safer by regularly checking your pool fence and gate to make sure they’re in working order.

Royal Life Saving has a free home pool safety checklist that you can download from www.royallifesaving.com.au and conduct a self-assessment of your pool and surrounds.

This should not be a substitute for a pool inspection. Contact your local council or pool service provider for advice.   

Don’t wait until summer. Check your pool fence and gate this weekend, and make sure it’s compliant with your local Council regulations.

Children in Australia often grow up around the water, with many pools, rivers, dams and beaches for families to enjoy together.

Safety starts at home. If you have a pool please download Royal Life Saving’s pool safety checklist and always keep watch of children around water.

Justin Scarr,

CEO, Royal Life Saving Society - Australia