A backyard pool is one of life’s simple pleasures—a place to relax, cool off, and spend time with family. But with that enjoyment comes responsibility. Swimming pool safety isn’t just about following regulations; it’s about keeping your loved ones safe.
Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death in children under five, and even pets can find themselves in trouble if they can’t exit the pool. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can make a world of difference. This guide walks you through key safety tips, fencing requirements, and practical ways to prevent accidents.
Why Swimming Pool Safety Matters
The Risk for Children
For young children, a few seconds can mean the difference between safety and danger. Most backyard drownings happen quickly and quietly—often without splashing or cries for help. It only takes 20 seconds for a small child to drown, and a lack of supervision or proper barriers is often the cause.
The Risk for Pets
Not all pets are strong swimmers. Short-nosed breeds like bulldogs and pugs struggle because of their body structure, while small pets may panic in the water and be unable to climb out. Even energetic dogs that love the water can become exhausted if they can’t find an easy exit.
Taking a few safety precautions can prevent these accidents and give you peace of mind.
Pool Safety Regulations and Fencing Requirements
Pool safety laws exist for a reason: they save lives. In Australia, any pool or spa deeper than 30cm must have a compliant safety barrier.
That means your pool fence must be at least 1.2 metres high, with a self-closing, self-latching gate that opens outward. Gaps in the fence should be no larger than 100mm, and there should be no climbable objects—like furniture or planters—near the fence.
If you built your pool recently, the fencing must completely separate it from the house. Councils conduct routine inspections, and non-compliance can lead to fines. But more importantly, a secure barrier could prevent a tragedy. If you’re unsure whether your pool fencing meets current standards, check with your local authority.
How to Improve Swimming Pool Safety
Check Your Pool Fence and Gate Regularly
A pool fence is only effective if it’s in good condition. Over time, latches weaken, gates shift out of alignment, and small gaps can form. Make it a habit to check that your gate self-closes and latches properly, and inspect the fence for damage or wear.
Keep an Eye on Children and Pets
Even the best barriers aren’t a substitute for supervision. Whether it’s a quick distraction—checking your phone, answering the door, or chatting with a guest—it only takes seconds for an accident to happen.
Always stay within arm’s reach of young children near the pool. If you’re hosting a gathering, assign a responsible adult to actively watch the water. For extra security, consider a pool alarm that alerts you if someone enters the water unexpectedly.
Teach Water Safety
Swimming is a skill for life, and it’s never too early to start lessons. Teaching children how to float, tread water, and safely exit the pool can save lives. Setting ground rules—no running, no pushing, no swimming without an adult—helps reinforce safe habits.
Pets also need guidance. If you allow your pet in the pool area, train them to find the steps or use a pet-friendly ramp so they can exit easily. If they panic in the water or aren’t strong swimmers, it’s best to keep them away from the pool when unsupervised.
Add Extra Safety Features
Beyond fencing, extra safety measures provide another layer of protection. A secure, weight-bearing pool cover prevents accidental falls, and non-slip surfaces around the pool help reduce slips and injuries.
Keep a life ring or rescue hook within easy reach in case of emergencies, and store a first aid kit nearby with bandages, antiseptic, and CPR instructions.
For pet owners, escape ramps are a great addition, giving animals a way out if they fall in.
Be Prepared: Learn CPR and First Aid
Even with the best safety measures, emergencies can happen. Knowing CPR and basic first aid can be the difference between life and death.
Organisations like Royal Life Saving Australia, St John Ambulance, and the Red Cross offer CPR courses for all experience levels. Keeping a CPR sign near your pool is also a smart idea—having clear instructions in an emergency can help when every second counts.
Seasonal Swimming Pool Safety
Summer Precautions
When temperatures rise, so do the risks. If your children aren’t strong swimmers, have them wear flotation devices when in or near the pool. Keep pets hydrated and provide plenty of shade to prevent overheating. Short-nosed pets are especially vulnerable to heatstroke, so watch for signs of distress.
Winter Precautions
Even when your pool isn’t in use, it’s still a potential hazard. Use a secure pool cover to prevent falls, and check fences and gates for damage after storms. Store pool chemicals securely to prevent pets from sniffing or chewing containers.
Maintain swimming pool safety year-round to minimise risks, even when the pool is not in regular use.
Swimming Pool Safety for Short-Term Rentals and Holiday Homes
If you rent out your property, ensuring swimming pool safety is your responsibility. Communicate pool rules, especially for families with young children.
Before listing your home, check that your pool fencing meets legal requirements. Installing extra safety features like alarms or pool covers can help prevent accidents. Review your insurance policy to ensure it covers pool-related incidents.
Keep Your Pool Safe with Pool Assist
A safe pool is a stress-free pool. Taking simple steps—checking your fence, supervising children and pets, and adding extra safety measures—can make all the difference.
At Pool Assist, we’re here to help you enjoy your pool with confidence. Whether you need expert advice, maintenance, or safety upgrades, our team is ready to assist.
Get in touch with us today or visit our team in-store and take the next step towards a safer, worry-free pool experience.