France Voila travel and French tourism, canal cruisers, boating on the canal du Midi

France has long lagged behind other world leaders in establishing rules regarding pool safety. Insurance agencies here, contrary to their counterparts elsewhere have continued writing policies for homeowners with unprotected pools. Meanwhile, the rate of accidental child drownings increases every year. In July this year, however, France finally passed a law setting safety standards for every type of private pool: private use only, private with a collective use (like hotels or gîtes), in ground and above ground pools. All properties must become compliant with the new standards by January 1, 2003. Taking another monumental step, France even gave the rules "teeth" by turning over enforcement to the local police instead of a national agency.

This new law is of special importance for owners of rental property. Beginning January 1, 2003 you will not be allowed to have guests on your property if it does not comply with the “New 2002 French Pool Safety Standards”. Don’t get caught out! Start planning for your access barrier now. If you are planning to hire out the work, start getting bids early and make sure the company knows the regulations. Because so many pools will need to be fenced, there is certain to be a shortage of qualified people to do the work.

I am in the final stages of confirming exact specifications of the regulation. To start planning use the following guide- this isn’t finalized- so please don’t write and say I caused you to build the wrong type fence. Keep your eye here and I will clearly indicate when I am certain I have untangled the rules for you.

The barrier must not block the view of the pool

The barrier must be 1.2 to 1.5 meters high measured from the ground (the exact height is specified, but currently I have 2 versions of the regulation- err to the high side)

There must be a gate with at least 2 pressure points (hinges at top and bottom)

The latch to the gate must be at the top (and probably be inside)

Above ground pools that are not 1.5 meters high will have the same requirement for a barrier as in ground pools.

The steps or ladder for all unfenced above ground pools must be removed after every use. All above ground pools regardless of height, and fencing must have a step inside the pool at all times for exiting the water.

The area surrounding the barrier must be clear of objects that could be used to climb over the fence or gain access to the latch (patio furniture, etc.).

More exacting rules next time- Get started planning NOW!