• Swimming pool fences can safeguard the pool from children and unwelcome guests.Swimming-belt in swimming-pool. image by Saskia Massink from Fotolia.com
  
  Pool fences not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a swimming pool, they can also help diminish the likelihood of unauthorized swimming. While many people install a pool fence to reduce the danger of a child drowning, the University of Washington Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center states pool fences do not dramatically reduce the risk. Even so, a pool fence checklist can help ensure a fence is effective in preventing unwanted swimmers.
  
  

Local Fencing Regulations

• Many local jurisdictions feature laws and regulations regarding private and public pool fences. These regulations often control the height and type of materials used for a pool fence. Before erecting a fence, contact your local zoning department for information regarding residential or public barrier requirements.
  
  

Fence Height and Materials

• The height of a pool fence can deter unauthorized access. Local laws may require a specific height for a pool fence. In Florida, statutes require a pool barrier at least 4 feet high. Taller fences offer even more of a deterrent.
  
  

Lock Type and Location

• One of the final items to review on your checklist is the type of lock used. A self-closing gate with a self-latching lock can ensure the pool is secured after every entry and can prevent children from entering or exiting the pool area without permission. The self-latching lock should be located on the top of the gate and require the user to lift a handle to unlock the gate. This prevents children from unlocking the latch.