Owners of tourism and visitor accommodation in the Shoalhaven including caravan parks and short-term rental properties are being reminded to check their swimming pool meets legislated safety requirements ahead of Summer.
Under the NSW Swimming Pools Act 1992, all pool owners are required to register their pool on the NSW Swimming Pool register, and ensure it complies with the prescribed standards to mitigate the drowning deaths of young people.
Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said this year, the owners of caravan parks, hotels, motels and short-term rental accommodation (STRA) are being encouraged to check they are meeting their obligations.
"We know the Shoalhaven is popular destination for visitors, particularly during summer and with a large number of holiday parks and rentals with pools, we want to ensure everyone in our community is kept safe," Cr White said.
"As a property owner, it is your responsibility to make sure your pool has the appropriate barriers and signage in place, including inflatable pools, and most importantly, please always supervise children when swimming," she said.
"I don't want to see an avoidable tragedy in the region this Summer. A pool that complies really can save lives," she said.
Swimming pool owners are legislatively required to ensure:
- Their pool is surrounded by a child-resistant barrier
- All gates are self-closing and self-latching
- Gates are never propped open
- Climbable objects should have been removed from around the barrier
- A resuscitation CPR chart is visible from the pool area.
- Children are supervised in the pool area at all times.
The law applies to all pools with a depth of 30cm (300mm) or more of water, including those that are portable and inflatable.
Penalties of $550 apply if a pool is not surrounded by a compliant barrier.
Council's Swimming Pool Barrier Inspection Program aims to educate property owners of their responsibilities and raise awareness about safety to prevent drownings.
Swimming Pool Inspectors are available to visit homes and business and advise owners of any changes required to obtain a compliance certificate.
