DECEMBER 1ST – time to Check Your Pool Gate

November 28, 2024

Check Your Pool Gate Month: Ensuring a Safe Summer for Australian Families

As the summer sun heats up and backyard pools become the centrepiece of Aussie life, it’s crucial to keep safety top of mind. That’s why D&D Technologies, a global leader in gate hardware, established Check Your Pool Gate Month every December, reminding pool owners to inspect and maintain their gates.

The Beginnings of a Safety Initiative

D&D Technologies initiated this campaign to reduce pool-related accidents, especially among children under five. Since its inception in 2013, the program has worked alongside Laurie Lawrence, the renowned swimming coach and water safety advocate, and his Kids Alive – Do the Five program. Together, they aim to raise awareness about pool safety and save lives by encouraging vigilance around pool barriers.

Why Check Your Pool Gate?

Statistics show that pool fencing, when properly installed and maintained, is one of the most effective tools in preventing accidental drownings. A functioning pool gate is often the last line of defence between a curious toddler and a potentially fatal accident. However, gates can fail due to wear, tear, or improper installation, making regular inspections vital. The MagnaLatch® Pool Safety Report 2024 found that 20% of pool owners haven’t upgraded their safety equipment in over five years!
In more positive news there has been a 24% decrease in drownings of 0-4 year olds vs the 10 year average from the Royal Life Saving report, which shows pool gate safety vigilance is working.

Pool Gate Safety Standards

Australian pool safety laws vary by state, but they all align with key safety principles:

• Self-closing mechanism: Pool gates must close automatically from any open position.
• Self-latching mechanism: Gates must latch securely every time they close.
• Minimum gate height: The latch should be at least 1.5m above ground level to prevent children from reaching it, and gates and fences to be a minimum 1.2m high.
• No climbable objects nearby: Ensure no furniture, trees, or fixtures are close enough for children to climb and access the gate.
• Barrier gaps: All barriers and gates must have no more than a 100mm gap to prevent children from squeezing through.
  
  

What to Check on Your Pool Gate

Conducting a thorough inspection of your pool gate doesn’t take long, but it could save a life. Here’s what to check:

1. Self-Closing Functionality
• Open the gate fully and let it go. Does it close on its own every time?
• Ensure the gate doesn’t stick or swing unevenly.
2. Self-Latching Mechanism
• Does the latch engage securely when the gate closes?
• Test it several times to confirm reliable latching.
• Check the latch will not open if you shake the gate, or if you can pry it open with implements.
3. Rust and Wear
• Inspect hinges, screws, and latches for signs of rust, wear, or loose components.
• Replace any worn parts immediately.
4. Latch Position
• Confirm the latch is at least 1.5m from the ground.
• Ensure it is out of reach and difficult for small children to manipulate.
5. Barrier Integrity
• Walk along the entire fence and gate perimeter to check for gaps, holes, or loose panels.
• Repair any gaps or unstable sections promptly.

How You Can Help

This December, join the movement to ensure a safer summer by inspecting your pool gate and sharing the importance of pool safety with friends and family. By spreading awareness, you could save a life.

For more information and expert pool safety hardware solutions, visit D&D Technologies. Let’s work together to make every backyard pool a safe place to enjoy this summer!

Remember: Water Safety Starts with You

Laurie Lawrence puts it best: “Prevention is the only cure for childhood drowning. Make sure your pool gate is safe—it’s a simple action that saves lives.”

Take the time this Check Your Pool Gate Month to protect the ones you love.

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