Keep Kids Safe: Backyard Pools Must be Fenced
Hamilton, ON – July 20, 2012 – According to Ontario's Drowning Report, private pools are one of the main settings where preventable water-related deaths occur. Based on 2010 stats, there was a 260% increase in drowning deaths in children less than 5 years of age and most drownings increase during the months of July and August and usually occur on weekends.
“It’s the property owner’s responsibility to make sure that their pool is safely protected with an approved enclosure and that they receive the required swimming pool enclosure permit before they build their fence. With this summer’s high temperatures a pool is a great way to enjoy being outside and stay cool; however, safety for everyone is always our number one priority,” says Ed VanderWindt, Chief Building Official and Director of Building Services for the City of Hamilton. “Failure to safely enclose a swimming pool may result in legal action against the property owner or costs added to the property owner's property tax bill if we need to pump or empty an unprotected pool.”
All in-ground pools and above-ground pools that are capable of holding more than 1,000 gallons, (4,550 L or 160 cubic feet) of water and are greater than 11 ¾ inches (300 mm) in depth must be protected by an approved swimming pool enclosure. Some larger hot tubs and on-ground soft sided pools that are 10 feet (3 m) in diameter with walls 24 inches (600 mm) high also require a fence. If residents have any questions or concerns about their pool or any pools in their neighbourhood, they can contact Building Services at: 905-546-2720, via email at building@hamilton.ca, or visit City Hall (3rd floor: 71 Main Street West).
For additional details, please go to www.hamilton.ca/poolenclosures or www.hamilton.ca/building for information on any other home building projects.