Mums horror: three-year-old breaks into locked pool fence
Think your pool is safe? Think again.
Horrified mum Krystal Hill has shared a shocking video showing just how easily small children can open locked pool gates.
With backyard pools being the most common place for toddler drownings, Krystal's video has sent shockwaves through pool owners and parents.
"So you think pool fences are safe! I watched my 3 year old who cant swim independently yet, climb up and open the pool gate and then let himself and his little sister into the pool area.
I am in a bit of shock at the moment! 😓 And yes I sat back and watched it happen because I wanted to see if he could actually open it and I have filmed it to show parents that sometimes just a pool gate isn’t enough." said Krystal.
"We will now be padlocking the gate but this is still no guarantee. They can’t be out the back without full supervision anymore and if I’m busy doing something else Inside I will be locking the back door. I am a bit shaken up over this. Far out. 😱" she adds.
Watch: Horrified mum shows her toddler breaking into the pool area
Royal life saving Australia has published some alarming statistics from the last year.
This year’s findings show that:
• The total number of drowning deaths over the past year increased by 10% on the previous year.
• The hottest summer on record led to a 17% increase in summer drowning deaths when compared with the 10-year average.
• 19 children aged between 0-4 years died from drowning and a further 27 non-fatal drowning incidents resulting in a hospitalisation.
Watch: Home pool safety check from Kidsafe
Pool Home safety
• Parents and carers should always keep constant watch on children whilst in the water. Alarmingly it takes just 20 seconds for a child to drown.
• Make sure you remove hazards such as pot plants and chairs from pool barriers to prevent children climbing on to them and over the barrier.
• Always take children with you when leaving the water.
• Do not prop any doors or gates open as this may allow children access to a body of water.
• Learn CPR and update your skills regularly so that you are prepared in the event of an emergency.
Michelle Connolly has worked as a photo director, social media manager and photo editor at some of Australia's biggest media companies, including New Idea. She is now editor of Practical Parenting and loving mum-of-two.
