As part of the Keep Watch campaign, council is urging parents and carers to supervise children at all times and be aware of the dangers of leaving children unattended near water.

Council’s manager Development and Compliance, Graham Snow, said water safety education was key to preventing drownings which are the leading cause of accidental deaths of children aged under up to four years.

“Restricting access to water, particularly in homes with swimming pools, inflatable pools or easy access to water, is vital,” Mr Snow said.

“To protect children, correctly install and regularly maintain pool fencing and create a safe play area near the home.

“It’s also wise not to leave aquatic toys and inflatables in the water when the pool is not in use.”

Royal Life Saving recommends the following Keep Watch safety tips to keep your child safe from drowning:

For more information on backyard swimming pool safety, visit: http://www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/pools