With summer in full swing and pools of all shapes and sizes popping up across the region, Mayor Cr Kerry Hayes is reminding residents about the importance of adhering to pool safety laws.
‘Earlier this month a three-year-old boy drowned in a neighbour’s swimming pool in Roma after he wandered off from his family home,’ he said.
‘We can’t escape the fact that drowning is still one of the leading causes of death in Queensland for children under the age of five, and a quarter of all drownings in Australia last financial year happened in our state.
‘Supervising young children, teaching them to swim, having effective pool fencing and always closing the gate can save lives. This is why pool safety laws were introduced.’
According to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), a swimming pool is defined as an above or belowground structure principally used for swimming or bathing, including some models of portable pools and spas.
‘If your portable pool or spa has the ability to hold more than 300 millimetres of water or it’s got a filter then the laws apply to you,’ Cr Hayes said.
‘If you have an existing pool, a new pool or are thinking of getting a pool then please head to the QBCC website and look through their tips and tools to help you navigate your legal requirements.’
All pools must be registered with the QBCC and pool barriers must comply with safety standards. Residents also need a pool safety certificate when a property is sold or leased.
Council has the power to investigate compliance with pool safety standards and can issue on-the-spot fines of up to $883.05 for individuals and $2523 for companies.
‘If you have any questions or think you may need a fencing or building approval give council a call on 1300 242 686,’ Cr Hayes said.
‘Pool safety is everybody’s responsibility so let’s work together to make this summer one free from tragedy.’
For more information head to http://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/home-building-owners/pool-safety/overview