Time to get your pool fence in shape

To help keep children safe around backyard swimming pools this summer, it is proposed the Sunshine Coast will continue its existing swimming pool fence inspection program within the former Maroochy Shire Local Government Area, starting 1 January 2009.

Continuation of the existing program was supported by council’s Service Delivery Committee today and the recommendation will now go to the full council for endorsement at next week’s Ordinary Meeting.

The program aims to reduce the risk of young children drowning in swimming pools that are unfenced or not properly fenced. Statistics show that most backyard drownings are due to children gaining access to the pool because it was unfenced or the pool gate was either defective or left open.

Pool fencing rules are made by the state government; however local councils are responsible for making sure all private pool owners follow these regulations.

Under the program, council staff will inspect selected pools within the former Maroochy Local Government area that have not had final inspection certificates issued, to ensure fencing around the pools complies with the Building Act 1975.

Council staff will specifically be looking to ensure pools comply with fencing standards and that those fences are kept in good condition.

This program will commence from 1 January 2009 and end on 28 February 2009.

Council’s Ordinary Meeting will be held at Tewantin Chambers on Thursday 4 December 2008.