Keeping your home safe from drowning risks isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about protecting the people who matter most. Whether you’ve got a backyard pool, a spa, or just a paddling pool for the kids, drowning can happen fast and often silently. Here’s what you need to know to keep your place as safe as possible.

Fence It, Lock It, Check It

In New Zealand, pool fencing laws are crystal clear. If your pool holds more than 400mm of water, it needs a compliant fence. No shortcuts. That means at least 1.2 metres high, self-closing gates, and no climbing hazards nearby (yes, that includes garden furniture and pot plants). Need to brush up on the rules? Check out Building Performance NZ for the latest regulations.

Oh, and don’t just install a gate latch and forget about it. Regularly check that it locks properly and isn’t getting stuck. It’s amazing how many people assume their pool gate is doing its job—until a kid finds their way in.

Watch Like a Hawk

Supervision is everything. It sounds obvious, but too many drownings happen because people assume someone else is watching. No phones, no distractions—just eyes on the water 100% of the time. If kids are in or near the water, an adult should be within arm’s reach, especially with younger swimmers.

Need a break? Swap with another adult so someone is always watching. Think of it like driving—taking your eyes off the road for ‘just a second’ can be the difference between safety and disaster.

Remove Temptation

Kids are curious. If they see pool toys floating around, they’ll want to grab them. After swimming, remove everything from the water—no inflatables, balls, or anything else that could tempt a child to lean in too far.

And while we’re at it, drain portable pools when you’re done. Kids can drown in water as shallow as a puddle. If you’ve got a spa, put a lockable cover on it. No exceptions.

Teach Water Confidence

Swimming lessons aren’t just a fun activity—they’re a lifesaving skill. Get your kids into lessons as early as possible. In New Zealand, organisations like Swim NZ offer programs to help kids (and adults) become more confident in the water. Even if your family are already strong swimmers, refresh those skills regularly.

And remember: even good swimmers can get into trouble. Strong currents, sudden fatigue, or just one bad decision can turn things dangerous quickly.

Know What To Do In an Emergency

If something goes wrong, seconds matter. Learn basic CPR—it could save a life. St John New Zealand runs first aid courses (check them out here) and knowing how to react in an emergency can buy precious time until help arrives.

Oh, and make sure your address is easy to find. If you ever need to call 111, emergency services should be able to locate you without confusion. Simple, but important.

Stay One Step Ahead

Drowning doesn’t always happen in the way you expect. Stay aware, stay strict with the rules, and don’t assume “it won’t happen here.” Prevention is simple—it’s about constant awareness and smart safety habits.

Want to upgrade your pool safety gear? Retailers like Bunnings NZ and Mitre 10 stock pool covers, fence latches, and alarms to give you peace of mind. Small investments can make a big difference.

Keeping your home safe from drowning isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about making sure your family enjoys the water without risk. Take it seriously, and you’ll never have to second-guess your precautions.