FAQs about ponds: safety

Pond grilles still allow wildlife to access the water (Natalie Giles)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions about... ponds:

How can I make my pond safer for children?

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation believes that filling-in ponds should always be a last resort, since the damage this can do to wildlife communities locally can be enormous.

Wildlife ponds can be made safe by following the points outlined below:

Never leave young children unsupervised near any large container holding water. This includes large plant pots, tub-ponds, paddling pools and garden ponds. Encourage children at every opportunity to respect water. This will benefit many children as they grow and could have wider positive impact. Many more drownings occur in water bodies other than ponds.

Put up a fence around the pond. The fence can be made of strong wood, non-climbable grating or with vertical railings no more than 10cm apart; it should be at least 1.1m high. Don't forget to leave a small gap between the ground and fence to allow wildlife access. A childproof, lockable gate is another option. Some people find willow-fencing more aesthetically pleasing.

Install a pond grille. A rigid mesh or grille across the pond creates a secure over. The grille needs to be able to support the weight of a child and should remain above the surface of the water at all times. Garden centres stock grates and newer products are easy to install.

Gently sloping sides. These are important for wildlife and for people should they fall in and need to get out easily.

You could consider these points above as temporary measures while children are smaller. Once children are older you can remove many of these features, promoting the pond as a place for enjoying and learning about the natural world.

More information:

I'm filling in my pond, what shall I do with the spawn/tadpoles/adult amphibians in it? >>>

When is the best time to carry out work on my pond? >>>

I have concerns about pond safety, what are the alternatives? >>>

Garden ponds and the law. >>>

Million Ponds Project. >>>