A SIMPLE job such as cleaning the leaves out of a swimming pool filter box, can be turned into a dramatic occasion, especially when you find a 1m crocodile.

Such was the fate of Tully Heads resident Noel King earlier this week. Although the reptile was removed by the Department of Environment and Science, it was an alarming experience and pool owners may have to accept that crocodiles can appear just anywhere.

And while you must be thinking your pool fencing is secure from anything, it may no longer be the case.

Port Douglas residents, already wary of swimming on Four Mile Beach in light of numerous crocodile spottings and the regular closing of the beach, may just want to be on the alert around their pools, especially if the property is near the beachfront.