Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for Australian children under 5 years of age. Statistics from the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia’s National Drowning Report show that in 2016/17, toddler drowning incidents increased by 32%. During this period, 29 Australian children aged 0-4 years drowned. The majority of these drowning incidents (45%) occurred in backyard swimming pools.
While safety barriers can be effective in reducing the risk of drowning incidents, evidence suggests that a large number of drowning deaths are the result of barriers that are faulty, or non-compliant with Australian standards.
Kidsafe’s ‘Safe Barriers Save Lives’ Backyard Pool Safety campaign calls on all pool and spa owners to check the safety of their pool or spa barriers to assist in keeping children safe in and around water.
Matt Welsh’s Top 4 Tips to check your backyard swimming pool:
For more information to assist you to check the safety of your pool and spa barrier, please click on the resources below:
‘Safe Barriers Save Lives’ campaign DL flyer
‘Safe Barriers Save Lives’ campaign A3 poster
