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Page Last Updated:
Thursday, 19 November 2009 |
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News>CITY URGES RESIDENTS TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING A PORTABLE BACKYARD POOL OR SPA
| CITY URGES RESIDENTS TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING A PORTABLE BACKYARD POOL OR SPA - 19/11/2009 |  Printer Friendly |
| With the hot summer weather already upon us residents who may be considering purchasing a portable swimming pool or spa for the backyard are urged to check if their purchase will require costly safety barriers or even a building permit.
City of Greater Bendigo Director of Planning and Development Prue Mansfield said many residents are unaware that a pool, spa, Jacuzzi or hot tub that is capable of containing a depth of water greater than 30 centimetres (12 inches) requires the correct safety barriers to be put in place.
"Drowning is the most common cause of preventable death for children under five years of age in Victoria and to improve child safety the State Government have introduced pool and spa safety regulations."
"This means that many inflatable type swimming pools need to have appropriate safety barriers or fencing to restrict access of young children to the area where the pool is located."
"The City of Greater Bendigo is keen to warn residents to make sure they check if they need to install new fencing or obtain a permit before they purchase these types of items this summer as the cost of doing this could far outweigh the cost of the actual pool or spa,"said Ms Mansfield.
She said people who fail to comply with the regulations risk not only the lives of their family and friends but risk receiving a fine of up to $5,900.
"The State Government and the Building Commission have produced comprehensive guidelines and information which are available online from www.buildingcommission.com.au Residents can also contact the City of Greater Bendigo Building Department on 54346347 for further information."
"A simple phone call could save a lot of misery and I encourage anyone thinking of purchasing a spa or pool for swimming, wading or paddling to contact Council prior to making the purchase," said Ms Mansfield.
She said people with existing swimming pools should also ensure that their fences are regularly maintained the correct safety standards and regulations.
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