Pool Fencing for Improved Safety

Gates and Latches
It is important that all pool gates be self-closing and latching so they do not accidentally remain open. Child-resistant latches should be installed on the pool side of the gate, at least three inches below the top. Keep slats on the pool gate spaced close together so small hands cannot reach between them and unlatch the gate. Better yet, place a horizontal member below the latch, locate the latch at least three inches below the top, and space vertical fence slats no more than one inch apart within eighteen inches of the latch.

Pool Covers
No pool cover alone is a substitute for appropriate barriers, latching gates, and self-closing doors with alarms. If the pool is immediately adjacent to the home, a powered pool cover rated to withstand weight up to 485 pounds is specified by BOCA. Additionally, the cover must have a mechanism to drain any standing water that accumulates on the cover and must not have any openings that would allow a 4.5- inch ball or sphere to pass through.

BOCA further specifies that the pool cover should have a keyed mechanism located in a direct sight line with the pool cover. The control should stop the pool cover if the key is released and reverse it on cue. That way the pool cover can be stopped and retract if it comes into contact with a person or object. The key should never be stored with or left in the control box.

Do Regular Safety Checks
All fence members should be checked regularly for sturdiness. All latches, screws, and brackets should be tested to be sure they are sound and working properly. Alarms should sound promptly and reset automatically. Alarms should also be equipped with coded key pads that momentarily shut off the alarm for adults to enter and leave the house or pool area. Check fence footings to make sure supports are sound. Measure periodically to be sure that the space underneath the fence has not increased with settling or erosion.