Deadline for pool registration closes soon
As the warmer weather approaches, Wingecarribee Shire Council is reminding backyard pool owners to register their pools and spas online before the October deadline.
The NSW State Government legislation was introduced in April this year with all owners of pools and spas across the state required to register their pools and spas by 29 October 2013 and ensure their pools comply with an online checklist.
The new legislation was introduced in a bid to reduce the number of child-related drowning that occurs across the state each year.
“Unfortunately, swimming pools continue to be the largest contributor to drownings in children aged 0 to 14 years with eight children nationwide tragically losing their lives last year in backyard swimming pool accidents,” said Nicholas Wilton, Council’s Group Manager of Development Services.
“Dozens more suffered permanent brain injuries and disability as a result of near drowning.”
As part of the program Council will be inspecting pools at tourist and visitor accommodation and multi-occupancy developments over the coming months and issuing certificates of compliance.
The State Government has announced that penalties may be applied to owners who fail to register their pools.
For more information, including registering your pool or spa online, visit www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au.
Apart from registering their pools online, owners can also view commonly asked questions and answers about their responsibilities and learn more about general pool safety.
Pool owners can contact Council’s Environmental Assessment Team on phone 4868 0888 for an independent pool safety assessment.