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Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health
group of young kids jumping in backyard pool

Prevention of Drowning

Drowning is a leading cause of death in children under five years of age. Learn more about how to prevent drowning around the home, at the cottage, and when visiting family and friends.

Backyard pools continue to be the number one setting where children under age five drown. Safer pool fencing could stop seven out of ten drowning incidents that take place in home swimming pools for children under age five. A few simple steps can help you save lives and have peace of mind.

Please check with your local municipality for the specific requirements for pools in your area, as they may vary.

  1. Get a Fence:  Four-sided: install a fence around the entire pool, leaving no direct access to the pool from the house; Minimum 1.22 metres (four feet); make sure the fence is hard to climb and that there is no space to crawl underneath.
  2. Get a Gate:  Close it up, install a self-closing gate. Latch it up, install a self-latching gate. Lock it up, use a lock on the gate when your pool is not in use.
  3. Learn More by reviewing the information and recommendations for Safer Pool Fencing Laws.

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COVID-19 vaccines in HPE

Eligible individuals can receive their vaccination at many participating local pharmacies by contacting the pharmacy directly. Please visit covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations for location and registration information.

Vaccine ordering for health care providers

Vaccine orders for routine immunizations and STI medications continue to be available through HPEPH by using our vaccine order forms; however, please note that our vaccine delivery/pickup procedure has changed. For the most up to date pick up schedule please visit hpePublicHealth.ca/vaccine-orders-info-healthcare-providers/.