Did you know the highest number of drownings happen throughout Summer? That’s why December is the National ‘Check Your Pool Gate’ month. According to the MagnaLatch Pool Safety Report, one in five families had a child gain access to their pool unsupervised. One in two children used a chair or something else to climb up and one quarter of them climbed over the fence.

It only takes a few minutes to check if the latch is working correctly and could save a life! Here are some simple pool safety checks you can do right now:

• • Your gate latch should be 1500mm off the ground so it is out of reach of small children.

• • NEVER EVER leave your gate propped open.

• • Ensure your fence does not have any big gaps – always less than 100mm.

• • Your pool gate should be able to self-close from any position.

• • Your gate should also latch automatically, and remain in place once closed.

• • All the hinges should be rust-free and bind-free.

• • Make sure the gate opens outwards, away from the pool.

• • Latches must be secure and not opened by shaking or jolting open.

• • All pool fences should comply with Australian Standards for pool safety.

• • Get training in CPR. Manta Swim School encourages everyone to learn how to perform CPR as it’s the difference between life and death.

“There is a link between pool fencing laws and rates of child drowning in pools. Areas of Australia with fewer exemptions from best practice fencing standards and more regular inspections experience fewer fatal drowning incidents.” Royal Life Saving

You can also read the Pool Safety Check List here and check head to http://www.checkyourpoolgate.com.au/ for more info.