Is your backyard pool set for summer?
Despite significant reductions in toddler drowning deaths over time, drowning continues to be one of the leading causes of accidental death for Australian children under 5 years of age. Statistics from the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia show that in 2022/23, 16 Australian children aged 0-4 years drowned, with swimming pools being the most common location where these incidents occurred.
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’ campaign urges all pool and spa owners to register and check their barriers in the lead up to summer. The campaign also promotes the importance of other water safety measures to keep children safe around water, including active adult supervision, CPR/first aid knowledge and water awareness.
For more information to assist you to check the safety of your pool and spa barrier, please use the resources below:
‘Safe Barriers Save Lives’ campaign DL flyer
‘Safe Barriers Save Lives’ campaign A3 poster
Royal Life Saving Australia’s Home Pool Safety Checklist
