Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for Canadian children under the age of five.
This month, By-law & Regulatory Services is offering tips about the Pool Enclosure By-law, which is designed to prevent unnecessary drowning deaths.
Pools
There is nothing better than jumping into a pool on a hot summer’s day. However, sadly, ever year a number of Canadians drown in backyard pools. These deaths are preventable.
The City’s Pool Enclosure By-law is designed to increase the safety of all pools and hot tubs.
While requirements vary, the following rules apply regardless of when your pool enclosure was constructed:
- All gates in a pool enclosure must be self-closing and equipped with a self-latching device and a lock located inside the enclosed area
- All pool owners must ensure every gate around the pool in closed and locked at all times, except when the pool area is in use
- Pool enclosure gates adjoining public spaces like parks or public pathways must be locked at all times, except when the gate itself is in use.
- Portable and blow up pools that hold water at a depth of two feet or more are a potential safety hazard and require a compliant pool enclosure
If you are planning to install a pool this summer, please remember to obtain your pool enclosure permit for everyone’s safety.
For more detailed information about pool enclosures and permits, please visit Ottawa.ca.
By-law & Regulatory Services is a proud partner of the Ottawa Drowning Prevention Coalition and wishes you and your family a fun and safe summer.
