Toddler’s near-drowning brings pool fence debate back to the fore

IT’S a miracle that toddler Patrick McLean is here with his family today after he was found near death in a backyard pool two weeks ago. The incident is a reminder that it’s time pool fencing laws were reviewed again by the NT government.

Patrick McLean, 16 months, has made a healthy recovery after a near drowning incident two weeks ago. He is pictured with his uncle Angus Newton and mum Amy Newton. Picture: Che Chorley

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IT’S a miracle that Patrick McLean is here with his family today and with the expectation that he will make a full recovery.

The toddler was all smiles yesterday when he visited the first responders who helped to save his life.

Mum Amy Newton thought Patrick was safe with his grandad when in fact he had snuck outside and made his way into the pool.

If not for her brother, Angus Newton, little Patrick may not be with his family.

It’s moments like these that make you realise how important life is and how quickly things can turn sour.

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It’s also lucky that Patrick’s grandparents knew CPR and were able to perform first aid on the boy until paramedics arrived.

We are also lucky to live in a country where highly trained medical professionals are here to help at the drop of a hat.

While it’s important to keep an eye on children, especially around water, accidents happen from time to time.

So it’s equally important to know first aid so if you do end up in a situation like the Newton family you can do your bit to help keep your loved one alive.

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It’s also time pool fencing laws were reviewed again by the NT government.

Currently if you live at a property that is larger than 1.8ha, which is most of the rural area, you are not legally required to fence your pool or spa.

The fact it’s an emotive issue shouldn’t put off the government from taking another look into the pros and cons of pool fences.