We're rolling out some changes across our aquatic facilities to help keep all your little ones safe this Summer.
Below are the key changes to our Watch Around Water policy you should be aware of:
- If your child is under six (6) years of age, the Responsible Adult must be within arm’s reach – If the child is in the water, you must be as well
- If your child is under twelve (12) years of age, the Responsible Adult must maintain constant visual line of sight and be prepared to enter the water at any time
- Each Responsible Adult can supervise a maximum of 4 children
- A Responsible Adult is a person aged 18+ who is the parent, step-parent, guardian, relative, or a person who is acting in place of a parent and who can reasonably be expected to exercise responsible supervision
Since the introduction of the 'Watch Around Water' Program in 2004, there have been no drowning deaths involving young children in public swimming pool facilities in WA and pool managers are reporting increased levels of parental supervision – However, both parents and lifeguards need to continue to work together to keep kids safe.
Helpful Tips
- Take steps to minimise distractions – Such as mobile phones and chatting with other parents
- Prepare everything you may need before getting in the water – Such as towels and dry clothes
Our updated Watch Around Water policy comes into effect from Friday, 17/12/2021.
For more information, talk to our friendly lifeguards the next time you're at the pool, or check out our Watch Around Water page.