Garden Pond Safety

Ponds can attract animals, like frogs and birds.

Garden ponds can a beautiful addition to any landscape. They can offer a spot of serenity and become the focal point of any garden. Though attractive, ponds can cause unnecessary drownings if poorly constructed and left unprotected. While barriers can be placed around ponds, they should not be solely relied upon to prevent accidents. It is important to educate children on pond safety.

Installation

Construct your pond in an area of the yard that can be easily spotted from the home. Designing the pond with sloping edges rather than a drop to deep waters is a smart precaution. Find out from local authorities if putting a fence around your pond is a requirement. Fencing should be too tall for children to climb over. Planting flowers and foliage along fencing can deter children from getting too close to the pond.

Surroundings

Water can easily seep out of ponds. To help prevent slipping accidents, use slip-resistant materials around the pond's edges. You can maintain the pond and tend to your garden with secure footing, even if those areas become wet. Tree roots and loose rocks can be tripping hazards and should be cleared. Seating or benches should be placed far enough away from ponds so they don't cause trips or falls into the water.

Children

Children can drown in as little as 2 inches of water. It is imperative to supervise children near the garden pond at all times. Swimming fish are an exciting attraction to children. Children may lean too closely toward the fish or even try to catch them. Either reaction can cause children to accidentally fall in the water. A ledge or shelf placed around the edges of the pond provides assistance for children who may need to hoist themselves out.

Electrical And Chemical Safety

Hire an electrician to install any lighting enhancers, electric pumps or electric filters. Check all equipment on a regular basis for any needed maintenance, replacements or repairs. If using chemicals to treat pond water, follow all directions on the labels carefully. Chemicals need to be put back in original packaging and should be stored in a locked place, out of the reach of children.

Netting

Mesh netting placed over the water helps protect fish and other living organisms from being eaten by other animals. It also prevents fish from jumping out of the water and keeps out leaves, debris and pets. Be sure to anchor the netting securely to the ground with stakes, bricks or heavy rocks. Refrain from having the netting hang into the water as fish can get entangled and die.

References

• HealthGuidance: Garden Pond Safety Aspects
• SafeGardening: Keep Your Pond Safe

Resources

• Garden Ponds101: Pond Nets
• KidsHealth: Water Safety