Every year, children drown in private pools in just a few minutes. However, simple and effective solutions exist to prevent the worst. Here's everything you need to know to secure your pool and protect the little ones.
Why securing a pool is essential for children
In France, more than 25 children drown each year in private pools, mainly under the age of 6. Safety is therefore not an option but a necessity.
The law requires the installation of at least one safety device compliant with current standards: a barrier, alarm, cover, or shelter. These devices must be activated systematically and accompanied by constant supervision.
Essential equipment for securing a pool
There are two main categories of pool safety devices: active solutions, which alert, and passive solutions, which prevent access to the water.
Alarms and barriers: prevent and alert
Barriers must be at least 1.10 meters high and surround the entire pool. The gate must be secured to be inaccessible to young children.
Pool alarms (NF P90-307 standard) are triggered when someone crosses the perimeter or falls into the water. Two types exist:
- Perimeter alarms: detect intrusion around the pool
- Immersion alarms: react to movement in the water
Indicative price: between €200 and €1000 for an alarm, €30 to €300/linear meter for a barrier.
Covers and shelters: block access to the water
Safety covers (NF P90-308) must withstand a weight of 100 kg without deforming. They start at €25/m².
Pool shelters (NF P90-309) completely protect access to the pool and are weather-resistant. Their price varies from €2,000 to over €50,000 depending on the model.
Which safety device to choose for your pool?
The choice depends on several criteria: budget, type of pool, age of children, safety expectations.
Comparison of safety solutions
| Device | Safety Level | Average Price | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrier | Good | 30-300 €/meter | Minimal |
| Alarm | Medium | 200-1000 € | Regular checks |
| Cover | Very Good | 25-100 €/m² | Moderate |
| Shelter | Excellent | 2,000-50,000 € | Low |
For families with young children, it is recommended to combine several devices, such as a barrier + alarm or a cover + alarm.
Check mandatory standards before purchase
Each piece of equipment must be certified:
- NF P90-306: barriers
- NF P90-307: alarms
- NF P90-308: covers
- NF P90-309: shelters
Always request the certificate of conformity. It will be required in case of inspection or sale of the house.
Good practices for flawless pool safety
Equipment never replaces human vigilance. Always supervise children when they are near the water.
Adopt these simple actions:
- Keep a pole, a buoy, and a phone nearby
- Establish clear rules with children
- Put away floating toys after each swim
Teach children to swim at a young age and make them aware of the dangers. Even the youngest can learn essential safety reflexes.
Penalties for non-compliance
Since 2006, any owner of a private in-ground or semi-in-ground pool without a compliant safety device
