How a Pool Fence Can Save Lives

Summer is all about fun in the sun. Trips to the beach, sleeping in late and hours spent by the pool are surefire signs that summer is in full swing. But what happens when those fun activities turn into tragedy?

On average 3,500 – 4,000 people drown each year in the United States. Young children are particularly susceptible to pool-related injuries, drowning is the leading cause of death for ages 1-4 .¹ Of the total number of non-fatal drowning incidents that resulted in emergency room visits between 2015 and 2017, 73 percent of the victims were 5 or younger.²

So far in 2023, there were 90 fatal child drownings in Texas for children age 17 and younger.³

Drownings like these happen all the time and peak during the summer when everyone goes outside for a dip in the pool. It can happen to anyone. In June, retired Olympic skier Bode Miller’s 19-month-old daughter drowned after falling into a backyard swimming pool.⁴

Prevention Practices

These accidents can be prevented when the right security measures are in place. If you have a swimming pool at home, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several ways to prevent child drownings, including:

• Constant supervision: Adults supervising children around water should not distract themselves with other activities. Supervisors should follow the “touch supervision” rule of always being close enough to reach the child.
• Swimming lessons: Formal swimming lessons from an instructor should begin as soon as the child is old enough, as this decreases the likelihood of a drowning. Children in swimming lessons should still be supervised around water and have a barrier, such as a pool fence, to prevent unsupervised access.
• Clearing the pool and deck of toys: What many guardians don’t take into consideration is that toys left out near the pool are enticing to children. Remove toys from the pool and surrounding areas so children aren’t tempted to approach the water unsupervised.

The CDC also recommends installing a four-sided fence that completely separates the pool area from the house and yard. The enclosure must be tall enough that the latches are out of the reach of children. States have their own laws regarding minimum pool enclosure heights. In Texas, residential pool fencing must be at least 48 inches high.

Types of Pool Fences

There are several types of pool fences to consider when choosing one for your backyard pool. It’s important to pick one that suits your safety needs and aesthetic preferences to ensure a finished look that will last for years to come.

1. Iron – While not as popular as it once was for pool fences, iron is still cherished for its antique appearance and durability. Homeowners typically choose this fencing material for its classic appearance.
2. Wood – Wooden fences are another traditional and long-lasting option that give homeowners more privacy. They are available in a variety of designs, colors, shapes and sizes and only need to be painted or treated annually.
3. Vinyl – Vinyl fences are the safest choice for children because there are no gaps to squeeze through, bars to climb or sharp edges. They are more durable than standard wood fences and provide a high level of privacy for your backyard.