Emergency responders rushed to a home in Kialla last evening following reports of an unresponsive child discovered in a swimming pool.
Despite paramedics’ efforts to perform CPR on the eight-year-old boy, he tragically passed away.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the young boy’s family. Our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time,” expressed a spokesperson.
The pool was enclosed with fencing that met all safety standards, as confirmed by the company.
“We are committed to fully cooperating with authorities in their ongoing investigation,” the spokesperson added.
“We are also offering support to the Shepparton team, who are understandably affected by this sad event.”
Life Saving Victoria (LSV) called the death “a sad and timely reminder” to keep children safe around water.
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic incident in Kialla,” an LSV spokesperson said.
“Children remain one of the highest risk groups for drowning with home pools, bathtubs and dams leading locations for these incidents.
“We encourage parents and caregivers to actively supervise children at all times when around water, enrol your child in swimming and water safety lessons, learn CPR so you can assist in an emergency, and restrict children’s access to pools and other water bodies by ensuring there are sufficient barriers in place.”
Home pools must have a compliant and tested pool safety barrier, including a self-closing, self-latching gate and a non-climbable perimeter.
