Make your swimming pool safe for animals

In the extreme heat we have been experiencing, everything is drawn to water. Our Hotline
5441 6200 indicates that this can be perilous for our wildlife. Bandicoots, possums, koalas,
birds and reptiles are just some of those trapped and often drowning in pools. They too
want to cool down or may need a drink of water.
Unfortunately, swimming pools are inviting as a water source for animals, native and
domestic. We don’t consider what will happen if they go into the water and can’t get out
again. Now being recognized as a major problem, people have devised some ingenious
methods of preventing animals from drowning in backyard swimming pools. Floating mats,
or rafts made from pool noodles can be secured to a tethering point. It is important to
ensure that whatever is used as a tether is not also a tripwire for those walking or running
around the pool.
There are a number of commercial products now available such as Frog Logs. You can
simply install one or more of these around side of the pool. The more the merrier!
Positioning of the ‘’safety ramps’’ is important. It is always best to place any floating,
tethered device relative to where the water is flowing. Pools circulate water towards the
skimmer basket so if positioned correctly the animal will be carried towards the safety
‘ramp’. To find the best spot, throw something light into the water and watch where it ends
up. Always make sure the mat is firmly up against the pool wall so the animal can climb out
easily.
Hoping everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Year break with family and friends,
and the very, very best for 2024.
Donna Brennan Wildlife Volunteers Assoc Inc (WILVOS) PO Box 4805 Sunshine Coast Mail
Centre Q 4560 PH 5441 6200 www.wilvos.org.au