Cracked Tiles & Slippery Surfaces? How To Keep Your Pool Safe For Little Swimmers

There’s nothing quite like the sound of children splashing and laughing in the family pool on a hot summer’s day. Perth Fibreglass Pools offer endless entertainment and a welcome reprieve from the heat, especially here in sunny Australia. But alongside the fun comes a responsibility—keeping your pool area safe, particularly for little swimmers.

Slippery surfaces, cracked tiles, sharp edges and neglected maintenance can turn a backyard oasis into a safety hazard. Whether you’re a new pool owner or have had one for years, safety should always come first. Let’s dive into practical ways you can ensure your pool area is not only beautiful but also secure for children.

1. Inspect and Repair Cracked or Damaged Tiles

Cracked tiles are more than just an eyesore—they’re a safety hazard. Little feet are especially vulnerable to sharp edges, and even a small fracture can lead to painful cuts or stubbed toes. If left unaddressed, water can also seep behind damaged tiles, weakening the pool’s structure over time.

What to do:

• Conduct regular inspections of your pool tiles, especially along the waterline, steps, and floor.

• Engage a professional to repair or replace cracked tiles. DIY fixes can be tempting but may not last or meet safety standards.

• Consider slip-resistant finishes when choosing replacement tiles for added safety.

2. Make Surfaces Slip-Resistant

Slips and falls are among the most common causes of poolside injuries, particularly for kids who tend to run around the pool area in excitement. Wet tiles, algae build-up, and certain materials can make the surface dangerously slick.

Safety tips:

• Use non-slip materials when building or renovating your pool surrounds—think textured concrete, natural stone with grip, or slip-resistant tiles.

• Apply anti-slip coatings or sealers if your existing surface is too smooth.

• Keep surfaces clean and dry where possible. Regularly sweep, hose down, and remove debris that can make surfaces slippery.

3. Fence It Right—It’s the Law

In Australia, it’s a legal requirement for all residential pools to be fenced in accordance with state-specific regulations. But beyond compliance, fencing is a critical first line of defence in preventing unsupervised access by children.

What makes a good pool fence?

• Minimum height of 1.2 metres with no gaps wider than 100mm.

• Self-closing and self-latching gates that swing outward from the pool.

• Clear of climbable objects like pot plants, chairs, or garden beds.

Don’t forget to regularly check the condition of your fence and gate to ensure they remain compliant and functional.

4. Cover Up: Safe Pool Covers and Nets

Pool covers serve many purposes—from keeping out leaves to maintaining water temperature—but some options also enhance safety. A properly secured safety cover or net can act as a barrier when the pool isn’t in use, especially during colder months or holidays away.

Choose covers that are:

• Strong and weight-bearing, able to support the weight of a child without collapsing.

• Securely anchored to prevent slipping or sagging.

• Easy to remove for adults but not accessible to children.

5. Mind the Chemicals – Store and Use Safely

Pool water requires careful balancing of chemicals like chlorine, pH adjusters, and algaecides. While essential for hygiene, these substances can be hazardous if misused or accessed by curious little hands.

Best practices:

• Store chemicals in a locked shed or cabinet, away from children and pets.

• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when dosing your pool.

• Never mix chemicals—this can cause dangerous reactions.

• Allow proper circulation after adding chemicals before allowing swimming again.

6. Create Clear Visibility

If you can’t see your kids, you can’t supervise them. Clear water, unobstructed views, and good lighting all contribute to a safer swimming environment.

Key visibility checks:

• Maintain crystal-clear water with proper filtration and chemical balance.

• Avoid placing large plants or structures that block views of the pool from the house or entertainment area.

• Install adequate lighting for evening swims, especially around steps and entry points.

7. Step It Up—Safe Entry and Exit Points

Entry and exit points like steps, ladders, or swim-outs must be designed with safety in mind. Slippery or poorly positioned access points can be dangerous, particularly for kids who are just learning to swim.

What to look for:

• Wide, textured steps with a gradual slope.

• Secure handrails for stability.

• Regular maintenance to remove algae or calcium build-up that can create slick surfaces.

8. Swim Lessons and Floatation Aids

While physical safety measures are essential, teaching kids water confidence and safety from a young age is equally important. Consider enrolling your children in professional swim lessons to build their skills and awareness.

Also consider:

• Using properly fitted floatation devices approved by Australian safety standards.

• Teaching children pool rules, such as no running, no diving in shallow areas, and always swimming with an adult present.

9. Emergency Preparedness

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. Being prepared to respond can make all the difference.

Essentials:

• Keep a first aid kit near the pool area, stocked with waterproof plasters, antiseptic, and gauze.

• Learn CPR and refresh your training regularly.

• Have a phone nearby in case emergency services need to be called quickly.

• Display emergency numbers prominently, especially if guests or babysitters are supervising.

10. Regular Professional Inspections

Finally, even if everything seems fine on the surface, having your pool professionally inspected every year or two can uncover hidden hazards. From tile damage and leaks to outdated fencing or equipment, a qualified pool technician can provide peace of mind that your pool is safe and up to standard.

A backyard pool is a wonderful asset for any Aussie family, offering fun, fitness, and quality time. But when it comes to little swimmers, safety should always be the top priority. By addressing hazards like cracked tiles and slippery surfaces, keeping up with maintenance, and ensuring adult supervision at all times, you’re creating a space where kids can enjoy the water safely and confidently.

If you’re unsure about the current safety of your pool, don’t wait for an accident to happen—get it checked, repaired, or upgraded today. A few proactive steps can make all the difference in keeping your little ones safe around the water.

Related Articles:

• Easy Ways Of Maintaining The Cleanliness Of Your Pool Area
• Reasons Why You Should Properly Maintain Your Swimming Pool