Hundreds of people drown in private pools every year. The first victims are children under 6.
Since 2004, and in order to reduce the number of fatalities, the homeowner is required by law to protect his/her pool.
Who does this law concern?
Act no. 2004-1 applies to pools for both private or collective use. Individuals, hotel, camping, holiday centre, and lodge pools are all concerned by the law.
Not included within the scope of the legislation are inflatable or portable pools placed on the ground, indoor pools, and for-a-fee organisations that use the services of a lifeguard.
Pools built since 1st January 2004
They must be equipped with one of 4 safety systems, no later than first filling.
The builder must provide the pool owner with a technical notice indicating the characteristics of and the operating conditions for the safety system. He/she must also inform him/her of drowning risks.
Pools built before 1st January 2004
The owner must bring his/her pool into line. He/she must have system conformity certified by a manufacturer, sales representative, or a government-affiliated technical inspector.
Sanctions
Non compliance is subject to a fine of € 45,000.
The mandatory pool safety devices
The owner must choose of the following 4 systems:
- rigid or semi-rigid safety cover
The equipment must meet French standards in effect (NF). It is intended to prevent a child under the age of 5 from accessing the pool.
Safety tips
Accidents happen fast, never leave a child unattended near a pool.
Equip young children with a buoy or butterfly wings.
Teach your children how to swim as early on as possible. (Please note that a child only really knows how to swim as of 5 or 6).
Take a simple first aid course.
In case of an accident, remove the person from the water. If they are unconscious, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and cardiac massage. Call for emergency assistance: dial 15, 18, or 112 (from a mobile phone).
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