Pool safety stressed

WITH summer rapidly approaching, the City of Casey is reminding swimming pool and spa owners to take necessary precautions to prevent children from drowning.
Some things to remember include ensuring barriers and gates are fitted and maintained to operate correctly, closing the gates at all times, ensuring children cannot climb on anything to access the pool or spa and supervise children at all times.
City of Casey manager Building Services Paul Usatov said residents had to ensure their swimming pools and spas adhere to Building Regulations.
“Complying with pool barrier regulations is mandatory as drowning is a leading cause of death of children under five years old,” Mr Usatov said.
“Regulations apply to any swimming pool or spa containing a water depth of more than 300mm and constructed on a property on which a house is situated.
“A pool or spa greater than 300mm in depth and capable of containing a depth of water exceeding 300mm requires a building permit, and any barrier required to surround a pool or spa area also requires a building permit.”
Penalties of over $5000 apply to anyone violating building regulations and do not have an appropriate safety barrier for their swimming pool or spa.
There have been amendments made to swimming pool and spa barrier legislation since 1 May 2010. For more information, visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/swimmingpools or call 9705 5200.