SwimSafe

Vulnerable patrons are individuals at a statistically greater risk of drowning at Victorian aquatic facilities. This includes:

• Weak or non-swimmers
• People from multicultural communities
• Adults with pre-existing medical conditions or disabilities
• Older adults with mobility or health challenges/concerns

A 10-year analysis of drowning incidents at Australian aquatic facilities found:

• 28% of victims were born overseas
• 61% had a pre-existing medical condition
• $4.2 million is the estimated cost of a single drowning death
• Lifeguards may supervise large groups but cannot actively supervise every individual at all times

These findings highlight the need for public education, clear signage, and personal responsibility - especially for vulnerable patrons.

SwimSafe accredited facilities display clear, consistent safety messaging and provide resources to support vulnerable patrons safely enjoy aquatic facilities. These include:

• Pull-up banners and A-frames at key entry points
• Posters and brochures featuring the five (5) SwimSafe tips
• Communication materials positioned in target entry locations, changing areas and aquatic spaces
• Signage displayed near known high-risk locations such as deep-water 

These campaign materials are designed to start and support communication to patrons, encourage conversations between staff and patrons and articulate expected safety behaviours.

SwimSafe materials should be prominently displayed at or near:

• Facility entrances and reception areas
• Entry and exit points of changerooms
• Pathways leading to pools
• Deep water areas and high-risk zones
• Locations where patrons naturally gather or queue

Strategic placement ensures the messaging is noticed and absorbed before patrons enter the water.

SwimSafe supports several requirements in the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations, including:

• Encouraging patrons to self-identify as non-swimmers or weak swimmers, or otherwise requiring assistance
• Use of evidence-based-signage and communication materials at key locations throughout the aquatic facility
• Development, application and review of policies, procedures and staff training supporting vulnerable swimmer
• Implementation of risk treatment activities including supervision, activity zoning and community education

All aquatic facilities with Pool Lifeguards can register to join the SwimSafe campaign. On registration they will receive access to campaign communication resources, training materials, and implementation and ongoing support tools. Campaign accreditation is reliant on adherence to the mandatory campaign requirements and ongoing implementation.