By Scott Vanderheyden, Belgravia Leisure’s Group Aquatic Safety Manager
Drowning remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in Australia and New Zealand, with public pools being high-risk venues that contribute to this statistic. As leaders in aquatic safety, it is imperative that we explore comprehensive strategies to enhance drowning prevention in public pools through such initiatives as training, technology, education and awareness and safety processes.
The critical role of lifeguard training
Lifeguards are the frontline defence in preventing drownings in public pools. Therefore, their training must be exhaustive and continuous. Modern lifeguard training programs should encompass advanced supervision techniques and lifeguards should be adept at scanning large areas quickly and efficiently, recognising distress signs that might not be immediately apparent. Within this training, it is important that realistic rescue drills are incorporated. Regular, unannounced drills that mimic real-life scenarios can ensure lifeguards are always prepared.
As first responders, emergency medical training is essential to the role and ensures it is practised on a regular basis – not just in qualification updates. Proficiency in CPR, first aid and early access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) is crucial. Lastly, Lifeguards must be trained to communicate effectively with both patrons and internal stakeholders – communication is key in preventative and reactive situations for lifeguards.
Technological innovations in drowning prevention
Technology can significantly enhance drowning prevention efforts. Using a product such as Lynxight, can be used as an additional supportive layer to assist lifeguards in monitoring their area of responsibility. AI and Drowning Prevention Systems can monitor and track swimmers that may be difficult for the human eye to see, such as due to glare from artificial and natural lighting, wind impacting the water surface and blind spots from poor facility design.
These systems should never replace the need for a human lifeguard to be present on pool deck to ensure the preventative conversations can take place prior to a swimmer getting in distress.
Community engagement and education
Educating the community about water safety is a fundamental aspect of drowning prevention. As we know, there are many demographics that utilise our venues, and most haven’t been afforded the opportunity to be proficient in water safety skills. It is important that everyone within our community has access to swimming lessons. Offering swimming lessons to all age groups ensures that more people are comfortable and competent in the water, reducing the likelihood of getting into distress.
Education to our community is the next layer to provide relevant and impactful information to help swimmers understand the dangers of water. Regular campaigns to educate the public about the importance of water safety, the role of lifeguards, and the potential dangers of children or adults swimming unsupervised. Providing these resources in multi-lingual offerings is important to gain maximum impact.
Implementing Robust Safety Processes
From an organisational perspective, it is important that safety processes be rigorously designed and enforced to minimise the risk of drowning. This can include completing Regular Safety Assessments via the governing body such as the Royal Lifesaving Society of Australia, Lifesaving Victoria or Pool Safe NZ. Conducting frequent assessments to ensure all the venue operations are meeting the regulatory requirements, emergency equipment is functional and that lifeguards are adhering to safety standards. Having clear and proper signage in line with statutory and legislative standards indicating pool depth, diving restrictions and emergency procedures is essential.
Drowning prevention in public pools requires a multifaceted approach, combining advanced lifeguard training, technological innovations, community education and strict safety processes. By adopting these strategies, we can create safer aquatic environments and significantly reduce the incidence of drownings. As leaders in this field, we must continue to advocate for and implement these measures, ensuring that public pools are safe and enjoyable for everyone.
As professionals and stakeholders in aquatic safety, let us commit to ongoing education, investment in technology, and community engagement. By working together, we can enhance drowning prevention efforts and save lives. Join us in this critical mission to ensure that every swimmer can enjoy our public pools and go home to their friends and family members at the end of the day.
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