Following a horrendous spate of drownings a Bunbury pool expert is encouraging vigilance and safety around pools leading up to Australia Day celebrations.
Neville and Robyn Walsh, owners of Bunbury Poolwerx both agree pool owners must take responsibility and ensure their pool is as safe as it can be.
The pair are asking people to check their pool gates and fences are in good condition with emphasis on the gate’s self-locking latch.
“It’s also important that there are no objects or furniture surrounding the pool a child could use to gain access to the pool area,” Mr Walsh said.
“40 per cent of pool owners fail to regularly inspect the safety of their pool area.”
Mr Walsh said the health of the pool water also needed to be considered in order to ensure a safe environment for swimmers.
“Part of a safe pool is healthy water but many people are putting their family at risk by not maintaining their pool water correctly, especially in summer,” he said.
“Pools require additional attention during the warmer months. Prolonged exposure to UV rays burns chlorine, which is required to kill bacteria, and warmer temperatures, especially the heat we are experiencing now, promote algae growth.”