Are you safe summer ready?

As the weather heats up many of us will be spending more time outdoors and around water. See our tips to help you and your family have a safe, happy and healthy summer.

Portable pools

Portable pools are a popular alternative to in-ground pools, but they can be just as dangerous. Many parents and carers may not realise the significant drowning risks.

In South Australia it is a requirement for all portable pools with a depth of more than 30cm to be fenced.

Anyone with a portable pool should always:

  • Supervise young children - within arm’s reach
  • Act - learn CPR and be emergency ready
  • Fence - pools deeper than 30cm.
  • Empty - and store the pool safely away.

Read more about portable pools on the Product Safety Australia website.

Aquatic toys and flotation aids

Aquatic toys and flotation aids are not safety devices. They can also make a child seem more competent in the water, providing parents with a false sense of their child’s swimming ability.

Children who cannot swim may drown if their aquatic toy or flotation aid fails or if they don’t use it properly.

So remember, these items don’t replace the need for active adult supervision.

Check the age and weight restrictions of these products to ensure they’re appropriate for your child. Read the warning labels and follow instructions for proper assembly and use.

Read more about aquatic toys or swimming and flotation aids on the Product Safety Australia website.

Trampolines

Trampolines appear to be safe, but did you know they’ve been designed for only one child to use at a time?

Hundreds of Australian children are taken to hospital every year for trampoline-related injuries such as cuts, sprains and fractures.

Don’t let your trampoline spring a nasty surprise.

Always use safety padding on the frame and make sure there are no hazards around the trampoline.

Regularly check the condition of the trampoline. Make sure there are no holes or a bent frame, springs are intact and securely attached at both ends, and leg braces are securely locked.

Read more about trampoline safety on the Product Safety Australia website.

Quad bikes

Quad bikes have a number of design features that create risks for users, particularly when used on uneven or sloping ground. Losing control of a quad bike can cause it to flip or rollover causing death or serious injury.

Due to their size and inexperience, children should never drive or be a passenger on quad bikes intended for adults.

Despite quad bikes being safer thanks to new regulations, the safest option for children is to avoid riding them altogether.

Read more about quad bikes on the Product Safety Australia website.

Christmas toys

In the lead up to Christmas it’s a good idea to check that the gifts you are giving haven’t been recalled or banned. Check that gifts for little ones are age appropriate and don’t pose choking hazards.

Be sure to read any warning labels and follow all safety instructions.

For products that are powered by button batteries, make sure the battery compartment is secured – e.g. screwed in – so the batteries aren’t easily accessible to young children.

If swallowed or inserted into body parts such as ears and noses, button batteries can become stuck and burn through soft tissue in just two hours.

If you suspect a child has swallowed a button battery, immediately call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. If the child is having any difficulty breathing, contact 000.

Read more about button batteries.

Previous summer safety campaigns

Be Summer Safe 2022

Stay safe this Summer 2021

Safe Summer 2019

Safe Summer 2018

Swim safe this Summer 2017