SAFETY FIRST

Young children should be supervised around water at all times, even with a small pond. Fencing the pond off from the rest of the garden or covering it with a metal grille will make it safer, but it is important to ensure that it is still accessible to wildlife. Netting should not be used, as animals and birds can become entangled. Alternatively, a bog garden habitat could be considered, with damp soil and marsh plants, as this will also encourage wildlife into the garden, while being a safer option for small children.