Pool Fences and Gates: Essential Safeguards Against Drowning
For most of the year, Arizona residents are fortunate to enjoy warm, sunny weather perfect for swimming and spending time by the pool. However, frequent pool use necessitates a heightened commitment to safety, including the crucial elements of sturdy, properly functioning fences and gates securing the pool area.
Arizona law recognizes the importance of pool barriers by requiring residential pools to be completely enclosed by a fence that is at least five feet high, is situated at least 20 inches from the water’s edge, and has no openings, handholds, or footholds that could allow unauthorized passage into the pool area. The law also dictates that gates must be self-closing and self-latching, open outward from the pool, and contain a latch located at least 54 inches above the ground.
This law attempts to minimize the threat of accidental drowning. Residents of the Phoenix area are sadly accustomed to hearing news reports of children drowning or nearly drowning in swimming pools. The following grim statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlight this all-too-common problem:
- Each year, an estimated 350 children under age five drown in swimming pools across the country.
- In warm-weather states like Arizona, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children under five.
- Approximately 2,600 children visit the emergency room for near-drowning incidents—some of which result in permanent brain damage.
- The majority of these tragic incidents occur in surroundings that were familiar to the child, such as the family’s pool or one owned by friends or relatives.
While there is no substitute for constant adult supervision, pool fences and gates are essential for reducing the risk of drowning, as they prevent children (and pets!) from entering the pool area by themselves. To provide maximum safety, pool barriers should be made from high-quality materials, properly installed, and in good repair. Wrought iron is one of the safest materials for pool barriers because it is naturally durable, making it resistant to damage and climbing. As an added bonus, wrought iron has an elegant appearance and may be customized to suit the style of any property.
At DCS Pool Barriers, we are committed to advancing pool safety with proper pool fences and gates. We have been designing, manufacturing, and installing wrought iron pool barriers for over a decade. All of our wrought iron products are made with premium-grade steel for long-lasting durability. We also repair existing pool barriers to ensure continued safety, and our team of professionals can recommend whether repair or replacement is the right option for your property. Warmer weather is here and it is time to prepare for a fun and safe pool season—call DCS Pool Barriers today at 623-825-7700 for a free estimate!