By NATALIE GALLENTI-BREKALO
MELTON City Council is taking a stand against residents who do not adequately secure their swimming pools.
Star can reveal that in the last six months the council has issued 10 emergency orders for non-complying pools.
The data comes in the wake of Life Saving Victoria’s 2012/13 Drowning Report which was released late last year.
The report revealed that there were 130 drowning incidents in Victoria between July 2012 and June 2013, including 41 fatal and 89 non-fatal drowning incidents, representing the highest drowning toll since 2004/05. There was an increase of four deaths compared to 2011/12.
The statistics showed that for every drowning death there were another three non-fatal drowning incidents.
Mayor Bob Turner said while the summer months meant warm weather, swimming and fun, it was also a time to remind residents that unfenced or poorly fenced swimming pools could quickly take the fun out of any holiday period.
“Every year there are tragedies, usually involving children, that result from backyard swimming pools not being properly fenced,” Cr Turner said.
“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. I hope residents can have a fun and restful summer season by keeping their children safe through adequate pool fencing and keeping a watchful eye.”
He urged residents to check the safety fencing around their pool, and make sure it is fenced appropriately, is secure and doesn’t require maintenance. He said both above-ground and in-ground pools needed to have fencing.
Cr Turner added that vigilant supervision around swimming areas would also help keep children safe and having fun over the summer season.
And reminders aren’t the only deterrent with offenders facing fines of up to $7200 if the fencing around their pool or spa does not comply with regulations.
