Every parent’s dream is to watch their kids run around the backyard and have magical childhood memories. That is why it is important to make sure your children are able to play safely. One of the best ways to ensure this is by childproofing your home.
At Rockhampton Fencing Experts, we understand the importance of childproofing your fence and are here to provide you with the best services and solutions. No matter the size of your outdoor space, our experienced staff can help you find the right fencing solution to keep your kids safe.
How to Childproof your Fence
Here are five ways to childproof your fence:
Install a gate latch
A gate latch is a simple yet effective way to prevent children from accessing areas of your yard that are off-limits. Look for a latch that requires an adult-sized hand to open, such as a key lock or a latch that must be lifted up and pulled back.
Use fencing with small spaces
Consider installing fencing with small spaces between the slats or panels, such as a timber or aluminium fence. This will prevent children from squeezing through and potentially getting injured. If you want your fence to be completely free of gaps, opt for a solid Colorbond fence. This is also a sturdier alternative that will withstand many impacts from children’s toys and bikes, and the stray football.
Add a fence topper
A fence topper is an additional piece of material that is placed on top of your existing fence to make it taller and more difficult for children to climb over. Options include decorative spikes or even simple timber slats. Or better yet, make sure to install a tall, sturdy fence like Colorbond or timber from the get-go that will see your children safely inside the yard well into their adult years.
Install a self-closing gate
While you want to make sure that you close your gate every time it is used, you might want to save yourself the hassle and opt for a self-closing gate. This is a gate that automatically closes after being opened, helping to prevent children from wandering off. These can be especially useful for gates that lead to a pool or other potentially dangerous areas.
Use a pool fence
If you have a pool in your yard, installing a fence around it is essential to prevent children from accidentally falling in. Choose a fence that is at least 1.2 metres high and has a self-latching gate for added safety. Just make sure to check your area’s local regulations for pool fencing (for instance, in Queensland, the minimum pool fencing height is 1200mm). The type of pool fence also matters – opt for sleek glass pool fencing if you have older kids or an aluminium pool fence to keep younger children out of the pool area unsupervised.
By taking these steps to childproof your fence, you can help ensure that your children stay safe and protected in your yard. If you want to learn more about child-proofing your fence or have a child-friendly fence installed, contact our expert fencers today for a free estimate!