Watch Around Water

• Must be accompanied into the centre by a responsible parent/guardian
• Must be actively supervised at all times by a responsible parent/guardian
• Must remain in a clear line of sight to parents/guardians with no physical or structural barriers

• Parents/guardians must assess the child’s swimming ability and maturity to determine the required level of supervision required

• Under 10 years of age: 1 parent/guardian to 4 children
• Under 5 years of age: 1 parent/guardian to 2 children

The Watch Around Water campaign was developed in response to research and data showing that lapses in parent/guardian supervision were a contributing factor in child drowning incidents. The campaign aims to ensure consistent, industry-wide messaging about parent/guardian supervision responsibilities while visiting aquatic facilities with children.

Parents and guardians are primarily responsible for the active supervision of their children in and around aquatic facilities. Facility staff (including Pool Lifeguards) play an important supporting role but cannot be reasonably expected to actively supervise every child at all times.

Active supervision means always watching your child, being within arm’s reach when required, avoiding distractions (e.g. mobile phone use), and being ready to respond in an emergency. Active supervision is achieved through appropriate proximity and continued attention of the supervising parent/guardian. 

Accredited facilities will display Watch Around Water branded materials, which may include:

• Entry point accreditation/endorsement
• Safety signage detailing parent/guardian supervision requirements
• Posters, leaflets and banners throughout the facility
• Safety tips and reminders at changerooms and around pool spaces
• Coloured wristband for children to wear whilst making use of the facilities, identifying their age

If you are concerned about a child’s safety, notify a Pool Lifeguard or facility staff member. Facility staff are trained to take appropriate steps to address instances of unsupervised children as a component of the program.

LSV provides aquatic facility staff with resources, training tools, and policy guidance to manage supervision expectations and encourage/empower safe patron behaviour. As a statewide program, WAW ensures a consistent approach to child supervision across Victorian aquatic facilities.

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