In Australia, drowning is the single most common cause of death due to injury for children under five years of age. About half of these deaths occur in residential swimming pools or spas.
It is for this reason that pool and spa owners are being urged to follow new rules for buying and selling properties.
Rigid laws exist around pool fencing for protection of owners and their children. Legislation introduced in 2012 requires all homeowners to register their pools online or face paying a fine.
From the 29th of April 2015, all properties with a pool or spa that are sold or leased must have a pool compliance certificate confirming that the pools barrier meets required safety standards.
The Ku-Ring-Gai Council is asking all property owners, landlords and real estate agents to ensure they obtain a compliance certificate before buying or selling a property.
Compliance certificates are available from local councils following a satisfactory inspection of safety barriers. Inspections can be arranged in Ku-Ring-Gai by calling the council on 9424 0000.
“It’s going to be a hot summer ahead, which means it’s important that property owners make pool safety a priority,” said Mayor Jennifer Anderson.
“Pool safety is a vital issue that affects the whole community,” especially regarding the high density of pool owners our community encompasses.
To register your pool and to make sure your pool meets safety standards, visit http://www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au/
Failing to have your pool registered can attract fines of up to $220.
