Laurie Lawrence/Kids Alive and PoolWerx team up to make a splash about water safety
Former Australian swimming coach and water safety ambassador Laurie Lawrence is joining forces with national pool and spa care franchise Poolwerx in an effort to improve pool safety education and prevent preschool drownings.
The school holidays will form the diving block for the partnership between Kids Alive – Do the Five and Poolwerx, with the official media launch taking place in Brisbane on Wednesday, 25 September.
The partnership will boost Laurie’s 25-year-long campaign by utilising the 300 Poolwerx franchisees to reach out to Australians with educational DVDs, pool safety checklists and through education at ongoing pool and spa care appointments.
Laurie Lawrence said this year would be the most significant to date for Kids Alive.
“We are teaming up with Poolwerx to take our ‘Kids Alive – Do the Five’ message to thousands of adults and children across the country, targeting the area where water safety is absolutely critical – in our own backyards,” he said.
“We want the simple steps people can take to reduce the risk of a tragedy or near tragedy to become part of everyday Australian lifestyle, and Poolwerx provides the perfect platform to support us with its wide footprint across the country.”
Poolwerx CEO John O’Brien said Poolwerx was committed to promoting water safety awareness.
“Despite boasting the highest pool ownership per capita in the world, Australians still ignore simple safety measures including regular inspection for pool dangers, displaying an up-to-date CPR chart and understanding basic life saving techniques,” he said.
“This Kids Alive campaign is a collective effort and something we’re all passionate about. Our franchises are committed to driving water safety education through our stores, service vans and as part of our community outreach.”
Laurie urged all Australians to check their pool safety before taking the plunge into the swimming season.
“Now is the perfect time to ensure your pool area is safe and ready to use by checking the fence is intact and the gate and latch are in working order. If you’re not sure, ask a professional,” he said.
For more information please visit the Poolwerx website.
