2010/05/12 - The City of Longview reminds residents to inspect and maintain swimming pool barriers

Press Release #: 10-32
Date: 2010/05/12
Contact: Gregg Hannon
Phone: 360.442.5223

The City of Longview reminds residents to inspect and maintain swimming pool barriers

The City of Longview would like to remind pool owners about the importance of inspecting and maintaining swimming pool barriers. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 350 children under five drown in pools each year nationwide, and over half of these incidents occur in June, July and August. Another 2,600 children are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year for near-drowning incidents. Most of these cases involve residential pools.

Many people assume that drownings at residences with a pool occurs only when the family is outside or using the pool. However, most drownings happen when young children leave the house without a parent or caregiver realizing it.  This can also include children from the neighboring homes. Children are drawn to water, and they don’t understand the danger pools can pose.

"Drowning happens quickly and silently, often without any splashing or screaming," said Code Compliance Manager Gregory Hannon. "It can occur in just the couple of minutes it takes to answer the telephone.  The key to preventing these tragedies is to have “layers” of protection. This includes placing barriers around your pool to prevent access, using pool alarms, closely supervising your child, and being prepared in case of an emergency.”

Code requirements for residential pools and spas have been in effect since July 2007.  The City of Longview Community Development Department offers the following information to pool owners in an effort to prevent drownings and to help you comply with state law:

• Fences and/or walls are required around all in-ground swimming pools and above-ground pools with a water depth of 24 inches or more.  These barriers must be at least four feet in height and installed completely around the pool.  Fence gates must be self-closing and self-latching. The latch must be out of a small child's reach.
• If your house forms one side of the barrier to the pool, then doors leading from the house to the pool must be protected with alarms that produce an 85 decibel sound when a door is unexpectedly opened.
• Keep rescue equipment by the pool, and be sure a phone is poolside with emergency numbers posted.  Knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be a lifesaver.
• For above-ground pools, steps and ladders to the pool should be secured and locked, or removed when the pool is not in use.
• If a child is missing, always look in the pool first.  Seconds count in preventing death or disability.

Questions about pools and spa enclosure requirements may be directed to the Code Compliance Division at 442-5093 or 442-5082 Monday through Thursday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. 

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