Pond Safety 101
As summer arrives, we spend more and more time outside. And if you’re anything like us, you spend most of the time either sunbathing in the garden or admiring your pond. Children are naturally fascinated by water and teaching them about your fish can be great fun, but make sure you follow some key pond safety tips.
Don’t Leave Kids Alone or Unsupervised
Never leave your children unattended in the garden when around water. Babies can drown in as little as one inch of water, which means that it can happen very quickly. Children under six are most at risk of drowning, so it pays to make sure that they are supervised at all times, with your full attention.
Check the Garden
Despite the fact that its summer, it will still rain. So if the sun is shining and you’re spending time outdoors, you should check the garden for containers filled with water or dips that have filled up with rain. If you can, empty the container into a drain and turn it upside down. You should also do this after using a paddling pool.
Child-Proof your Pond
Mesh/Grille – this is a secure way of protecting your pond and small children at the same time. A popular and cost-effective way to cover your pond, it is most commonly used for reinforcing concrete. The holes are usually 10/15mm squared, but make sure that it’s no more than 80mm x 80mm, as this should ensure against entrapment. Make sure that it’s heavy duty and will support the weight of a child.
Fencing – A fence around your pond can also offer protection for your child, as long as it is at least a metre high and doesn’t have big gaps in the fence itself and underneath. You should also pay attention to potential climbing aids around the pond, such as boxes or trees.
Remember, just because you have a mesh over your garden pond or a fence around it, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have to follow the tips above.
Dry Bed Waterfalls
If you’d rather walk on the side of caution and not have a pond, but you’d still like a water feature, then consider a dry bed waterfall. It is a regular waterfall, but the water doesn’t collect in a pool or pond, making it ideal for those with children or those who are health and safety conscious.
So make sure your summer is a happy one with our pond safety tips.