If you are thinking about putting a pool in your backyard, it is important for you to ensure that your pool has a good fence. Pools are a great addition to your home and are a great treat to have during the summer season.  You can take a dip to cool during such a hot season and even have fun activities in the pool. However, the pool can also be hazardous as accidents can happen.

It is the leading cause of death of children under the age of 5. This usually happens when they get into the pool unattended to or when they sneak out and slip into the pool. It is therefore important to have a pool fence to avoid such accidents to happen and the Municipal Laws of Ontario requires that every pool have a fence surrounding it.

All fences around a pool, require a gate. Gate requirements include:

1. shall be equipped to accommodate a locking device
2. shall open outward away from the pool
3. shall be self-closing
4. gates other than pedestrian gates shall have a self-latching device
5. the gate and barrier shall have no opening greater than 1/2 inch within 18 inches of the release mechanism

It is good to have a pool in your backyard; however, you need to make sure that you observe the necessary measures and requirements for pool fences.

For further information please visit: City of Hamilton Pool bylaws