keep your kids safe: childproof your fence

It is our responsibility as parents to keep our children safe. This includes ensuring that your outdoor space is child-friendly and secure. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips for childproofing your fence to help prevent accidents and keep your little ones safe.

Check for gaps and openings. 

One of the first things you should do when childproofing your fence is to check for any gaps or openings that could allow a child to crawl through or get stuck. Look for spaces between the fence boards or under the fence where a child could squeeze through. If you find any, consider adding additional boards or filling in the gaps with mesh or netting.

Make sure the fence is sturdy. 

A sturdy fence is essential for childproofing your outdoor space. If your fence is wobbly or leaning, it could easily be knocked over by a child or pet. Make sure the fence is securely anchored into the ground and that all posts and panels are in good condition.

Install a self-closing gate.

A self-closing gate is an important safety feature for any childproof fence. This ensures that the gate will always be closed, even if someone forgets to latch it. Install a gate with a self-closing hinge or spring to ensure that the gate always closes behind you.  This is mandatory in pool fencing in Markham according to Markham's Pool Enclosure By-law.

Add a latch or lock.

In addition to a self-closing gate, it's also important to have a latch or lock on your fence gate to prevent children from opening it on their own. Make sure the latch is childproof and can't be easily opened by small hands.  This is also required in pool fencing according to Markham's Pool Enclosure By-law.

Use childproof fencing materials.

Some fencing materials are more child-friendly than others.  In Markham, the pool enclosure can be constructed with wood, metal fencing or chain link fencing. However, chain-link fencing can be climbed easily by children, while wood and metal rails are more difficult to scale.  So consider the best type of fencing material for your situation when childproofing your fence.

Consider adding additional safety features.

Depending on the age and behaviour of your children, you may want to consider adding additional safety features to your fence. For example, you could add pool alarms or motion sensors to alert you if someone enters the pool area.

Childproofing your fence is an essential step in keeping your children safe and secure. By checking for gaps and openings, ensuring the fence is sturdy, installing a self-closing gate, adding a latch or lock, using childproof fencing materials, and considering additional safety features, you can create a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for your family.

If you have any further questions or would like to enquire about our fence installation services in Markham, give us a call at Markham Fence and we'd be happy to help.