Ponds are an excellent teaching tool for children. They can develop a strong respect for the environment by observing animals and plants. Children begin to recognize ecological
connections at a young age, and their early encounters with wildlife may shape their future passions and interests.
While we can rekindle our interest in ponds through the eyes of a child, we must remember that exposing toddlers to them is fraught with danger. Even a shallow garden pond, which appears to be harmless to us, can become extremely dangerous when unsupervised children freely access it.
Remember that toddlers can drown in just a few inches of water. Here are some precautions you can take to avoid mishaps:
1. Pond Netting/Cover
An attractive yet effective barrier can be a well-made pond cover or strong netting that forms a dome above the pond. A domed metal cover, as opposed to a thick mesh one, discourages toddlers from attempting to step onto the ponds surface. It functions as both a pond fence and a sturdy net in one. Viewers of the pond can easily peer through the gaps between the metal spokes. Fish can be fed without being hampered by a mesh that is directly on the waters surface. Furthermore, this method of childproofing would allow pond enthusiasts to lavishly decorate the pond with marginal and floating plants.
2. Pond Fencing
A low pond fence placed around the entire ponds perimeter should ideally keep toddlers away from the waters edge. The spaces between the vertical spokes of the fence should be narrow enough to discourage young children from attempting to slip through them.
Depending on the childs height, the vertical barrier should be at least a meter high. Use a fence that is high enough that older children cannot easily climb over it. There should be no gaps beneath the fence because children may try to squeeze through. Climbing aids like chairs, wood blocks, and stepping stones should not be placed too close to the fence structure. The fences gate must also have some safety features.
3. Pond Edges That Are Elevated
A raised pond edge made of natural materials like boulders and stones can help keep children from falling into a pond. However, these must be completely secured, as any loose materials can be just as damaging as a freely accessible pond in the long run. Consider using cement to secure the raised edges. In case of an accident, the area just beyond the edge should be fairly shallow. While this design feature can keep a garden ponds natural appearance, it is not an effective method of childproofing a pond. Children in strollers or prams by expert stroller manufacturer may also encounter a mishap in this situation. It will almost certainly need to be used in conjunction with other childproofing tools.
4. Pond Illumination
Consider installing waterproof lights offered by many expert LED downlight manufacturers in Delhi in your pond and garden for added security, especially at night or during the winter. This would allow you to keep an eye on anything moving around the pond in the dark. Pond lights are always a good idea, even if you don’t have children. They are not only attractive, but they can also help adults navigate the pond at night. Consider the convenience of having lights instead of having to search the garden for wandering children with a flashlight.
5. Alarm For The Pool
Surface waves or changes in water pressure are commonly used to activate a pool alarm system. A device is attached to the side of a pool or pond, and its sensor is usually located just above the surface of the water. If a child falls into the water, the alarm goes off immediately. This mechanism, while not completely accident-proof, allows for a timely response that can save a child from drowning. Unfortunately, it is not suitable for wildlife or fish ponds because the animal movement can set off the alarm.
Pond Safety Do’s And Don’ts
Do emphasize the importance of safe gardening practices to the adults at home. This should be done with teenagers and young adults as well as young children. Familiarize yourself with all potential hazards and devise a plan of action in the event that they occur.
Rules About Proper Pond Behavior
● Learn CPR in case of an accident. Maintain a stock of life-saving equipment.
● Allowing young children to get used to feeding the fish, even if they want to, may encourage them to try sneaking off to the pond on a regular basis.
● Always keep a list of emergency phone numbers on hand. This can be placed in a visible area of the home, such as on the refrigerator in a common kitchen.
● Aim to keep the pond water as clean as possible. You can use some quality ceramic ring
filter for trustworthy pond cleaning. Children may try to drink or play with the water. They may become ill as a result of the exposure if it is contaminated with parasites and pathogens.
Conclusion
The childproofing methods described above should only be used as precautionary measures in conjunction with supervision. They should never be used to take the place of an adults watchful eye.
