| TOP 10 RULES
FOR SAFE POOL FENCING |
| 1. |
Fencing should totally surround the pool
area. |
| 2. |
Fencing should be at least 4 feet, but preferably
6 feet, in height. |
| 3. |
The bottom edges of fencing should be within
4 inches of pavement or within 2 inches of
unpaved ground. |
| 4. |
Fencing should prevent children from squeezing
between vertical components of a fence, and
spacing should not exceed 4 inches. |
| 5. |
Fencing should provide no footholds or
handholds that would facilitate climbing. |
| 6. |
Diamond-shaped chain-link fence openings
should be no larger than 1.75 inches, or have
inserts to prevent climbing. |
| 7. |
Pedestrian gates should swing in a direction
away from the pool (so small children do not
push them open). |
| 8. |
Make sure an existing pool fence is in good
shape and stable, not wobbly or falling over.
Pool fences need to be maintained like cars
and appliances to be effective. |
| 9. |
Regularly check that the gate latches securely
and that spring mechanisms work properly.
Regularly oil the hinges and latches. Faulty
or broken latches and hinges negate the value
of having a pool fence. |
| 10. |
Keep gates closed securely at all times.
Never prop them open. This is an invitation
for wandering children to enter the pool area
unsupervised. If the gate has a lock, keep
the keys well out of children’s reach. |
