Register your pool, save a life

The majority of fatal drownings of children under the age of five happen in the home and in Victoria, 27 young children have drowned in private swimming pools and spas since 2000. Photo: ISTOCK

RESIDENTS with newly installed swimming pools and spas are being reminded of their legal obligation to ensure those structures are child safe.

Since 2000, 27 children have lost their lives in private swimming pools or spas, and in 20 of those fatal drownings, the Victorian coroner found non-compliant safety barriers were a contributing factor.

To prevent future tragedies, community members are now obligated to register these structures with their local council within 30 days of certification under a building permit and safety barriers must be inspected by a registered pool inspector.

Pools and spas that use separate safety barriers must be registered separately. Swimming pools only need to be registered once, and safety barriers must be maintained and inspected every four years.

City of Greater Geelong executive director of placemaking Tennille Bradley said the city was there to support pool and spa owners through the registration process.

“There are more than 8,000 registered privately owned swimming pools and spas in our region,” she said.

“Owners are reminded that they have mandatory responsibilities when it comes to safety and reducing the risk of drowning on their property.

“Don’t forget to register and certify your pool and spa, and have the barrier inspected by a registered pool inspector.”

Community members will receive information about which Australian Standard their safety barrier will need to comply with when registering, and will be informed when the structure is due for inspection and when to lodge their compliance certificate.

Owners who fail to register their swimming pools and spas, and have their safety barriers certified within the required timeframe, are in breach of building regulations and may face penalties.

Residents who have purchased a property with a pool or spa can contact the city to check if the structure is already registered.

To register a pool or spa in Greater Geelong, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/poolsafety or phone the city on 5272 4450.