With summer just around the corner, Wingecarribee Shire Council is urging potential customers of portable pools to think twice before making an impulse purchase.
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Council’s General Manager Corporate, Strategy and Development Services, Mark Pepping explained that many portable pools required the same security fencing as built-in or above ground pools.
“Many portable pool owners are surprised to learn that if the pool is greater than 300mm in height it may be subject to the same State pool and fencing laws as permanent pools,” he said.
“This means that it must be enclosed by an Australian Standard approved child-resistant compliant fence or barrier.”
Failure to erect proper pool fencing and safety measures can attract hefty penalties.
Fines include:
- $110 for failure to display a compliant resuscitation chart;
- $220 if the pool is not registered on the NSW Swimming Pool Register;
- $550 if the pool is not fenced; and
- $1,500 if a development consent has not been obtained.
In addition, pools or spas which hold a capacity of more than 2,000 litres require prior council approval and inspection.
The warning follows the release of the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2017 which showed drowning in children aged under five had increased by 32 per cent on the previous year.
Tragically 29 children under the age of four died across the country last year as result of drowning.
Inadequate pool fencing was highlighted as a contributing factor.
“These shocking statistics are a sobering reminder to always actively supervise children around water,” Mr Pepping added.
“It’s also why we urge people to think twice before they rush out to buy a portable pool as a summer treat.
“Portable pools are not toys and must always be properly fenced.”
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