General Questions About Pool Fences
Why do I need a fence between the house and the pool?
Experts agree the best way to protect against toddler drowning is to employ a multi layered approach to safety. That means to use various layers of protection so that we can be sure that at any one time at least one layer of protection is in place. Constant supervision is the most important method for reducing the risk of drowning. But even momentary lapses in supervision can be deadly. In fact, most accidents occur in less than five minutes from the last time a child is seen. That's why it is essential to place a fence between the house and the pool. Experts believe that installation of such a fence will prevent up to 90% of all pediatric drowning and near drowning.
My toddler is very active! Won't he be able to climb over this barrier?
The Protect-A-Child Pool Fence is designed to inhibit a child's ability to climb it. Its tight weave prevents children from getting a finger or a toehold. There are no hard or sharp edges so children can't hurt themselves falling into it. The pool fence comes down and meets the deck flush. This prevents a child or a toy from getting underneath. It's so strong when installed that it will stand up to even the most active or aggressive toddlers.
Won't a pool cover offer the same security?
Pool fencing will always be more effective in preventing accidents than covering a pool. This is simply because the pool fence stays in place even while the pool is in use. When a cover is removed, no protection remains until the adults take the time to put it back on. Human nature being what it is, the chance for leaving the pool unprotected is too great. Experts agree that a cover is not the best way to prevent drowning.
How does Protect-A-Child Pool Fencing work?
Protect-A-Child Pool Fencing is a modular system made up of 12' - 15' lengths of PVC coated polyester mesh with posts attached at 3' intervals. The posts extend below the mesh 3". Protect-A-Child Pool Fencing drills a pattern of small quarter size holes in the deck. We then insert a polyvinyl sleeve into the holes and the posts are placed into these sleeves. When one 15' section ends another one begins 2.5" away and is held together at the top by a latching mechanism. Its sleek transparent look helps it blend in with all landscaping and pool designs.
How do I enter the pool area once the fencing is installed?
With a Protect-A-Child Pool Fence there two options for pool access through the barrier. Either our self closing self latching gate, or our manual gate system. Our self closing, self latching pool fence gate uses the quality Magna latch and Tru close self closing hinges. With the manual pool fence gate system, you can enter and exit the pool fence wherever sections connect. In order to enter the fenced area, an adult must release the latch and pull the next post towards the opening to release some tension. You can then remove the post from the ground and fold it back into special lay back holes near your normal entry points to the steps or spa. This creates a simple gate for your regular use of the pool. You can also take down as many sections as you want, or remove the entire pool fence.
What if I want to have unrestricted access to the pool for a special occasion?
Protect-A-Child Pool Fencing offers the best possible combination of security and styling. And it's completely removable. One adult can remove the entire pool fence barrier in about ten minutes.
How do I estimate the fencing I will need?
The most common and safest route is to completely surround the pool at least 24" from the waters edge. This leaves enough room inside the fence to clean and use the pool without having to take the entire fence down. But at the same time leaves all the adult traffic patterns and all the useful play area outside the barrier. In order to measure the amount of pool fence you will need, simply begin at point A and stride around the pool. Most adults have an average stride that is 2.5' (80cm) in length. So if we count the strides it takes to isolate or surround the pool and multiply by 2.5 (80 cm) we'll know the approximate amount of pool fence needed. Call or email our office and we will be able to give you a cost quote based on that footage.
But my yard has different levels and decking.
The Protect-A-Child Pool Fence can be installed in any deck surface including grass or dirt. If the pool fence must be installed across extensive lengths of dirt, concrete may need to be poured to provide the strength necessary to support the tension. The Protect-A-Child Pool Fence easily conforms to changes in deck levels. By using specially built tall sections we can even climb a 3' retaining wall.
How do I have this fencing installed?
Within the US and Canada, and wherever Protect-A-Child distributors are located, the Protect-A-Child Pool Fence is sold on an installed basis. Our expert crews can enclose your pool in less than one day and your satisfaction is completely guaranteed. If there are no distributors available in your city, contact us directly and we will be happy to work with you to be sure you can get the safety a Protect-A-Child Pool Fence can provide.