New research shows a whopping 8 in 10 Australian parents say they keep their phone with them poolside – an alarming result as the phone is a major distraction from the responsibilities required for a pool supervisor . With 532 children under four having tragically drowned in Australia over the last 19 years, more than half (52%) occurring in swimming pools, Poolwerx and Olympic Gold medalist Libby Trickett are calling on everyone to take the Responsible Pool Person pledge this pool party season.
Research from Poolwerx shows more than 86 per cent of Australian parents believe there should be a designated supervisor at pool parties, so from 22-29 January Poolwerx is handing out free Responsible Pool Person hats to anyone who takes the pledge to make water safety a priority. The hat is to be worn when supervising the kids poolside and handed over when the role shifts to another adult.
Swimming superstar Libby Trickett has backed the water safety campaign and encouraged Australians to never be complacent around the pool, remain diligent and truly switch on when supervising.
“As a mum myself and a lover of all things water, watching my girls around the pool and ensuring as adults we’re doing everything we need to prepare, focus and be present while they’re having fun is really important,” Trickett said.
“Having strong pool safety practices implemented early on for children is vital, and Poolwerx’ Responsible Pool pledge and bright yellow bucket hats show kids who’s watching, and why it’s important to be careful around the pool. This means the whole family can really capitalise on the opportunity to enjoy quality time in the pool and continue to develop comfort and competency in the water.”
Nic Brill, Poolwerx COO, said the Responsible Pool Person campaign serves as a visual reminder for parents to keep distractions at bay when supervising water play.
“Drowning is still the number one cause of preventable death in kids under five, and the risk goes up exponentially once children start to crawl and become more independent. It takes just a few seconds for something tragic to occur,” Mr Brill said.
“With the opening of borders, we have a great reason to celebrate around the pool with friends and family this summer. The Poolwerx team across the nation is encouraging Aussies to don the Responsible Pool Person hat, keep sun smart and be an at-home lifeguard to make sure our kids are safer by the water.”
To ensure kids are safe in and around the pool this summer, Poolwerx and Laurie Lawrence’s Kids Alive do the Five have provided its top safety tips to check off before diving in.
- Nominate a Responsible Pool Person to supervise – Nominate one or multiple people to act as a Responsible Pool Person, and wear their bright yellow bucket hat as they supervise those in and around the pool.
- Ensure your pool is safe and secure – Check that all gates, fences and latches are in perfect working condition.
- Ensure no climbables near the fence – Any furniture that leans against the pool fence can act as a ladder for young kids to scale fences without parental knowledge. Ensure the space around the pool is clear at all times.
- Reduce distraction and remove glass – No glass or drinks should be around the pool when in use. Don’t get distracted by your phone when children are in the pool area.
- Maintain pool water health –- Make sure your pool water is healthy and clear.
To take the Responsible Pool Person pledge and claim your yellow bucket hat, visit www.Poolwerx.com.au/responsible-pool-person.