Fulton Homes

Fulton Homes Fence Patrol Program has awarded the Zirpels of Maricopa, Ariz. a free pool fence. Heather Zirpel nominated her family, who have experienced many emotional and financial hardships over the past few years. Heather was a single mother who recently remarried and had two kids with Troy Zirpel. The children are now 1 and 2-years-old and the parents are extremely concerned for their safety around the pool. The free pool installation will be taking place at their home on Tuesday, June 28 at 7:00 am.

Like many Valley families, the Zirpels endured many adversities in the past years. In 2008, only one month after the birth of their first son, Troy lost his job to a bad economy. Troy became a stay at home dad after not being able to find a job. After having their second child, and no luck for Troy finding a job, Heather went back to working full time when their second child was just 2-weeks-old. Troy recently managed to find a part time job out of state. With both parents working long hours, the Zirpels want to ensure the children's safety during all hours of the day.

"The Zirpel's have shown great strength in being able to make it through the hardships of a tough economy," said Douglas Fulton, CEO of Fulton Homes. "Fulton Homes is honored to be able to help a family whose young children are constantly around a pool. We are glad to alleviate the concerns of the Zirpel family."

The annual Fence Patrol program, established by Tempe-based Fulton Homes, aims to improve child safety around pools and promote pool safety awareness throughout the summer, when drowning risk is highest.

Arizona Pool Fence Laws state that all residential pools must be enclosed by a barrier. Families with children under six must also have a barrier blocking access to the pool from the house. Some cities allow door alarms in place of the pool barrier. Also, certain homes are exempt depending on when they were built. However, most homes must be brought up to code if remodeled or sold.

Interested parties in the Fulton Homes Fence Patrol have until July 4, 2011 to nominate themselves or someone else for a pool fence, by logging on to www.kmle108.com and clicking on the Fence Patrol icon. For more information call (602) 452-1000 or go to www.fultonhomes.com and click on the "Fulton Foundation" link.