TO THE EDITOR
It was very pleasing to read the Tararua District Council information page in the Bush Telegraph and I congratulate the council regarding advice to swimming and spa pool owners to check that “they have compliant pool fencing in place and to help reduce the risk of children drowning or being injured”.
I note that under the law, all pools must be fenced unless the maximum depth is less than 400mm, the walls of the pool are 1.2m or more above ground with no step-ups or hand holds or projections enabling a child to climb.
Further on in the condition there is more excellent advice: “ask yourself, does my pool require a fence and is it compliant for child safety?” Then “all pools must be inspected once every three years by law”.
I am quite sure that all residents are supportive of these quotes from the Building Pools Amendment Act 2016 as the Act is intended to keep young children safe in our community.
We now have a new and dynamic Council elected and the time is right for councillors to take a good look at the open drains that bisect the town of Pahiatua.
None of these drains are fenced at all and are an extreme hazard and risk to young children in our community.
There is no way that these drains would be compliant with
‘None of these drains are fenced at all and are an extreme hazard and risk to young children in our ’ community.
the fencing regulations in the Building (Pools) Amendment Act 2016 or any Act if one indeed exists.
The beautification and upgrading of facilities taking place at this time is a wonderful initiative of the Tararua District Council to enhance Pahiatua as a great place to live and raise families. Of far greater importance is the immediate need to fence all those open drains.
The Council must take responsibility now as indeed pool owners are required by law to do — to ensure that all our young children are kept safe at all times in our town.
DALE PERCY Pahiatua