Any pool that can be filled with 30cm of water or more must have pool fencing that complies with the law of your state or territory. This includes inflatable and portable pools. Always empty small pools or buckets after use and store them safely.

Keep objects like outdoor furniture or pot plants away from pool fences so children can’t climb over.

See NSW Fair Trading for the latest pool fence rules.

Never leave your pool gate open. 

Make sure it closes automatically every time you go in or out. You can buy self-closing and self-latching gates from pool or hardware stores.

Help your child feel confident and safe in the water by spending time with them in the pool. Signing them up for swimming lessons is also a great way to build important skills.

Even if your child is a strong swimmer, they still need you to watch them closely. Always remind them to ask for permission before getting into the water.

Watching your child closely around water is the most important thing you can do to keep them safe. Floaties, pool noodles or even other kids are not enough - an adult must always supervise.

Young children will need your full attention in and around water. This includes not being distracted by mobile phones, household activities or conversations. Any distraction is dangerous and puts young children at risk around water. Below is a supervision guide only. If your child is not confident in the water, extra precautions and supervision strategies should be put into place. Minimum supervision considerations:

• children 0-5: Stay within arm’s reach of your child at all times, no matter the size of the water
• children 6-10: Keep them in sight and be ready to get into the water quickly if needed
• children 11-16: Keep them in sight and make sure they know how to swim.

Tip: At parties, pick one adult to be the 'water watcher' and wear a hat or armband so everyone knows who’s responsible.

CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can save a life if someone stops breathing.

If a child drowns:

• call Triple Zero (000)
• start CPR with chest compressions and mouth-to mouth (also known as rescue breaths)

This can help keep the brain and vital organs alive. It's a skill that everyone should learn. You don’t have to be a health professional to do it

In Australia, the law requires a CPR sign displayed near the pool. The sign must be in good condition and easily read from 3 metres away.

The knowledge and skills you learn may SAVE a LIFE. Remember, ANY attempt at CPR is better than no attempt.

Our free online CPR training modules for parents developed in partnership with clinicians from the Sydney Children's Hospitals Network aim to teach the steps involved in CPR for babies (aged less than 12 months) and children (aged over one year). The steps can also be used on an adult.

See Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for children (under 12 months) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for children (over 12 months) for more information. 

These fact sheets and modules do not replace accredited training courses for CPR or first aid.