Royal Life Saving condemns assaults on pool lifeguards

Following an assault by a group of youths on a teenage lifeguard at the Casey Aquatic and Recreation Centre (ARC) in suburban Melbourne and multiple reports this summer of lifeguards being violently assaulted, abused and even spat on, Royal Life Saving Society - Australia is condemning all violence, abuse and aggression directed at lifeguards and swim teachers, and calling for patrons to Keep Their Cool at the Pool.

According to Royal Life Saving research, last year there were over 2,000 incidents of abuse, violence, and aggression directed at staff working in aquatic facilities around the country.

To support the safety and wellbeing of staff working in aquatic facilities, prior to Christmas Royal Life Saving launched its ‘Keep Your Cool at the Pool’ campaign, which sets clear behavioural expectations for patrons and calls for users of aquatic facilities to treat each other and staff respectfully.

Royal Life Saving General Manager - Capability & Industry, RJ Houston stated “violence and aggression towards lifeguards and swim teachers is unacceptable.

“Our campaign has been developed to reinforce a culture of respect, cooperation, and zero-tolerance for aggression in aquatic facilities.

“Lifeguards and swim teachers provide a critical lifesaving role to the community and are there to keep everyone safe. When they give instructions to swimmers, this is to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

“Aquatic facilities should be safe spaces not only for swimming but for staff to work. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to ‘Keep Their Cool at the Pool’ this summer and support our lifeguards and swim teachers by standing against occupational violence and aggression.”

The ‘Keep You Cool by the Pool’ campaign has garnered strong support from aquatic industry leaders.

Emphasising the importance of respect for lifeguards and swim teachers in the community, Belgravia Group Manager - Health & Safety Scott Vanderheyden, noted “unfortunately, lifeguards and swim teachers are often abused for providing basic safety instructions to users, such as to keep watch over their children or use a particular area of the facility.

“This can lead to hesitation in providing safety instructions promptly, which is the last thing we want from our lifeguards and swim teachers, as their guidance is essential for everyone’s safety. It’s crucial for all pool users to show respect to lifeguards and swim teachers during their visit.”

AUSTSWIM General Manager Georgie Nichol echoed this sentiment, saying abuse of any kind has no place in public swimming pools.

Nichol stated “we stand united with our colleagues at Royal Life Saving in championing a culture of respect and zero tolerance to abuse.

“Swim teachers play an invaluable role in delivering vital water safety education within our communities, and we believe that all educators deserve a workplace where they feel respected, supported, and free from intimidation.

“We are committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all swim teachers. Let’s stand together to end all forms of abuse and ensure every swim teacher feels respected and valued."

The Y Victoria's Chief Risk Officer, Dan Coathup said ensuring young people have a safe and positive experience at work is vital, adding “lifeguards and swim teachers are vital to keeping our pools safe and fun this summer, and they deserve respect.

“The ‘Keep Your Cool at the Pool’ campaign highlights the importance of creating a workplace where our staff feel safe, supported and protected as they grow in their careers,” said Coathup.

For more information about the ‘Keep Your Cool by the Pool’ campaign, click here to visit the Royal Life Saving campaign website.

Main image credit: Royal Life Saving Society - Queensland.