Safe pools can save children's lives

Lifesavers are urging NSW homeowners to ensure their swimming pools are safe this summer to help prevent more drowning deaths.

Some 83 children have died in backyard NSW swimming pools in the past 13 years, with at least 70 more left brain damaged and another 1000 hospitalised.

Royal Life Saving NSW chief executive David Macallister said backyard pools are often the most dangerous swimming locations.

Mr Macallister says at least 80 per cent of backyard pools fall far short of basic safety standards on first inspection.

He is calling on people to conduct full safety checks of their pools and spas this weekend.

"It is deeply concerning that so many pools across the state are simply not up to scratch," Mr Macallister said.

"If a pool gate isn't closing properly, please get it fixed. If you're fence needs some kind of repair, take action. It is never worth the risk."

Local government minister Paul Toole joined his calls, saying losing a life through accidental drowning can happen within seconds.

"We can avoid drowning deaths and injuries by ensuring child-resistant pool fences are well maintained and pool gates are self-closing or self-latching and regularly checked," Mr Toole said.

The pair is also stressing the importance of vigilant supervision around pools and learning CPR.