Eight common pool mistakes homeowners make

Most pool safety problems aren't dramatic. They're small things that creep in over time. These are the eight we see most.

1. Not registering the pool

Every NSW pool and spa must be on the NSW Swimming Pool Register. It's tied to the property address and takes a few minutes.

2. Propping the gate open

A gate that's tied, wedged or propped open makes the whole fence pointless. Gates must self-close and self-latch, and be kept shut.

3. Letting hinges and latches wear out

Gate hardware wears. A gate that closes from wide open but not from a small gap fails. Test yours from several positions.

4. Building up the ground

New garden beds, mulch, paving or retaining walls along the fence reduce its effective 1.2 m height.

5. Parking things by the fence

Outdoor furniture, pot plants, bins, barbecues and pool equipment in the 90 cm zone outside the fence give a child a leg up.

6. Forgetting the CPR sign

A CPR sign must be displayed near the pool, in good condition and readable from 3 m away. Faded signs count as missing.

7. Renovating without thinking about the barrier

Changing the barrier during a renovation means the current standard applies. See renovating and pool compliance.

8. Relying on the fence instead of supervision

A compliant fence slows a child down; it doesn't replace an adult watching. Always supervise young children around water.

Want to know where your pool stands? Use our checklist, then call Garry on 0417 277 164.