🏊‍♀️ Top 5 Pool Safety Checks Every Canberra Homeowner Must Know

Owning a pool is one of life’s greatest joys — especially here in Canberra, where summer days are made for backyard swims, BBQs and family fun. But with that enjoyment comes a serious responsibility: keeping your pool area safe and compliant.

At NextGen Pool Co., we believe safety doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. Whether you’re preparing for an inspection or just want peace of mind, these five essential safety checks will help ensure your pool area meets ACT regulations and keeps your loved ones safe all year round.

1️⃣ Check Your Pool Fence Height and Gaps

Pool fences are your first line of defence when it comes to child safety.

• In the ACT, your pool fence must be at least 1.2 metres high.

• Gaps at the bottom of the fence must be no more than 100mm, and vertical gaps between fence posts should also be less than 100mm.

• Make sure there are no climbable objects (like pot plants, furniture, BBQs or retaining walls) within 900mm of the fence.

👉 Quick tip: Walk the perimeter of your pool and remove anything a child could use to climb over.

2️⃣ Test the Gate and Latch

A self-closing and self-latching gate is non-negotiable. It should:

• Close automatically from any position, without needing to be pulled shut.

• Latch securely every single time.

• Have the latch positioned at least 1.5 metres above ground (or inside a child-proof shield).

If your gate drags, sticks, or doesn’t close smoothly — it’s time for a tune-up or replacement. A faulty latch is one of the most common inspection fails we see in Canberra.

3️⃣ Measure Clear Zones Around the Fence

Your fence needs clear space on both sides.

• On the pool side, maintain a 300mm clear zone — nothing a child could stand on to climb over.

• On the outside, the 900mm rule applies again: no objects, steps or surfaces that reduce fence height.

This area can easily become cluttered with furniture or landscaping, so keep it tidy and safe.

4️⃣ Check for Wear, Rust or Loose Panels

Even the best fences age over time. Canberra’s mix of hot summers and frosty winters can cause corrosion, movement, or damage.

• Look for rust, loose panels, cracked glass or wobbly posts.

• Check that hinges are firm and that glass panels aren’t loose in their clamps.

• For timber or aluminium fences, look for warping or loose fasteners.

Regular maintenance prevents small issues from turning into major compliance headaches.

5️⃣ Review Your CPR Signage and Emergency Access

Every compliant pool area must display a current CPR sign that’s:

• Visible from the pool area,

• Weather-resistant, and

• Up-to-date with the latest Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines.

If your sign is faded or damaged, replace it immediately. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in an emergency.

💡 Bonus Tip: Book a Professional Compliance Inspection

Even if your pool looks perfect, it pays to get a licensed inspector to check it annually — especially before summer.

At NextGen Pool Co.our certified inspectors provide:

• Comprehensive pool fence inspections

• Compliance certification and reports

• Advice and rectification options if something needs fixing

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We’re Canberra locals, family-owned, and here to make pool safety simple, stress-free and seamless.

✅ Ready to Check Your Pool?

Book your pool fence inspection today and make sure your family is safe this summer.

👉 Book Now