11/12/2024

On National Safety Water Day, December 1, Georges River Council launched its “Get Summer Ready” Campaign urging the community to prepare and stay safe around water.
 
The campaign focuses on keeping safe around public water spaces as well as residential swimming pools and being pool compliant as the Georges River local government area is home to thousands of swimming pools.
 
Council recommends the following to avoid tragedies related to swimming pools including:

• Building compliant fences or barriers around swimming pools.
• Constantly supervising children in and around swimming pools.
• Displaying cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instruction sign close to the pool.
• Regularly inspect, maintain and repair pool fences and gates.

According to Royal life Saving Australia, last summer, 134 people lost their lives to drowning across Australia, with 41 percent of all drowning deaths occurring during the summer months. Older adults (55+) accounted for 39 percent of summer drowning deaths, while 10 percent were children aged 0–14.
 
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said, “In the summer months, our pools become places of fun and family memories. Our 'Get Summer Ready' campaign is all about ensuring these moments are safe, compliant, and enjoyable for everyone.
 
“Water safety is everyone’s responsibility. By taking a few simple precautions, we can prevent accidents and ensure our pools remain places of fun, not risk.
 
"A compliant pool is a safe pool; ensuring your fences, gates, and signage meet regulations to protect not just your family but your neighbours and friends too.
 
'Of course, one of the most important messages around water safety which Royal Life Saving Australia reinforce is the Keep Watch message: designate a responsible adult to supervise children around water, especially during holidays and parties.'’

To find out more about pool safety and compliance, visit Council’s Swimming Pool Safety page.